<p>In a meeting at the White House on Tuesday (July 18), US President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog engaged in discussions surrounding the tensions arising from a controversial judicial shake-up in Israel. The visit provided an opportunity for Washington to reaffirm its support for the strong alliance between the United States and Israel, as reported by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Judicial reforms controversy and Herzog's response</strong></h2>

<p>President Herzog promptly addressed the ongoing controversy regarding judicial reforms in Israel, which have&nbsp;sparked substantial street protests.</p>

<p>He emphasised that while it is a heated debate, it also demonstrates the resilience and strength of Israeli democracy. He reassured Biden that Israeli democracy remains sound and robust.</p>

<h2><strong>Underlining the importance of US-Israel alliance&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>President Herzog's high-profile visit, including his upcoming address to a joint session of Congress, served as a chance for Washington to underscore its unwavering support for the profound alliance between the two nations.</p>

<p>Biden highlighted the US commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and discussed the increasing diplomatic cooperation between Israel and Arab countries in the region.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Some Congress members might not attend Israel President Herzog's joint session</strong></p>

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<p>Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;loomed over Herzog's visit, as relations between his government and the Biden administration have faced challenges since his return to power. Some Democratic lawmakers have expressed potential plans to boycott Herzog's congressional address in protest.</p>

<h2><strong>Easing tensions and future meetings</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of Herzog's visit, Biden sought to alleviate tensions by speaking with Netanyahu and agreeing to a meeting later this year in the United States. While details regarding the meeting are yet to be finalised, it marks the first such encounter since Netanyahu's return to office. Concerns over growth of Jewish settlement and the need to maintain the viability of a future Palestinian state were raised during the phone call.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-he-is-likely-to-get-arrested-in-january-6-riot-case-617156">Donald Trump says he is likely to get arrested in January 6 riot case</a></p>

<p>Biden reiterated the significance of shared democratic values in the US-Israel relationship, emphasising the need for these values to remain a cornerstone. Concerns were expressed over the judicial reforms and extremist activities within the Netanyahu cabinet, with the Biden administration acknowledging that these concerns remain valid and troubling.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a meeting at the White House on Tuesday (July 18), US President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog engaged in discussions surrounding the tensions arising from a controversial judicial shake-up in Israel.

In a meeting at the White House on Tuesday (July 18), US President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog engaged in discussions surrounding the tensions arising from a controversial judicial shake-up in Israel. The visit provided an opportunity for Washington to reaffirm its support for the strong alliance between the United States and Israel, as reported by AFP. Judicial reforms controversy and Herzog's response President Herzog promptly addressed the ongoing controversy regarding judicial reforms in Israel, which have sparked substantial street protests. He emphasised that while it is a heated debate, it also demonstrates the resilience and strength of Israeli democracy. He reassured Biden that Israeli democracy remains sound and robust. Underlining the importance of US-Israel alliance President Herzog's high-profile visit, including his upcoming address to a joint session of Congress, served as a chance for Washington to underscore its unwavering support for the profound alliance between the two nations. Biden highlighted the US commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and discussed the increasing diplomatic cooperation between Israel and Arab countries in the region. Watch | Some Congress members might not attend Israel President Herzog's joint session Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu loomed over Herzog's visit, as relations between his government and the Biden administration have faced challenges since his return to power. Some Democratic lawmakers have expressed potential plans to boycott Herzog's congressional address in protest. Easing tensions and future meetings Ahead of Herzog's visit, Biden sought to alleviate tensions by speaking with Netanyahu and agreeing to a meeting later this year in the United States. While details regarding the meeting are yet to be finalised, it marks the first such encounter since Netanyahu's return to office. Concerns over growth of Jewish settlement and the need to maintain the viability of a future Palestinian state were raised during the phone call. Also read | Donald Trump says he is likely to get arrested in January 6 riot case Biden reiterated the significance of shared democratic values in the US-Israel relationship, emphasising the need for these values to remain a cornerstone. Concerns were expressed over the judicial reforms and extremist activities within the Netanyahu cabinet, with the Biden administration acknowledging that these concerns remain valid and troubling. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israeli President Herzog meets US President Biden amid tensions over Netanyahu's policies

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<p>The White House on Tuesday (July 18) announced a proposed 'Cyber Trust Mark' intended to show that connected devices meet American security standards. The increasing number of technologies,&nbsp;from baby monitors to security cameras,&nbsp;make up the Internet of Things that officials warned can pose increased cybersecurity threats. In a briefing, officials announced that as per the new programme, companies would be able to qualify display labels on their products signifying they meet certain cybersecurity standards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anne Neuberger, White House deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, said, "We now routinely rely on internet and Bluetooth-enabled devices for tasks as basic as adjusting our thermostat and as complex as securing our homes while we're away."</p>

<p>Neuberger warned that poorly secured products can enable attackers to gain footholds in American homes and offices and steal data or cause disruption.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Programme hopefully to start next year</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by the news agency AFP on Tuesday, the programme set up under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), is hoped to be up and running by next year after a public comment period. "Consumers can have peace of mind that the products that they're bringing into their homes adhere to widely accepted security and privacy standards," FCC chair Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said of US-endorsed cyber trust labels.</p>

<p>Rosenworcel added that product makers would be able to use the marks to differentiate offerings in the marketplace when they meet the standards</p>

<h2><strong>The companies taking part in the programme</strong></h2>

<p>Officials said that the companies taking part in the programme include Amazon, Google, LG Electronics, and Samsung. Citing data from cybersecurity firm SonicWall, the report also said that the amount of malicious software aimed at devices in the internet-of-things "jumped dramatically", with many of the attacks centred in North America.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The White House on Tuesday (July 18) announced a proposed 'Cyber Trust Mark' intended to show that connected devices meet American security standards. The increasing number of technologies, from baby monitors to security cameras, make up the Internet of Things that officials warned can pose increased cybersecurity threats.

The White House on Tuesday (July 18) announced a proposed 'Cyber Trust Mark' intended to show that connected devices meet American security standards. The increasing number of technologies, from baby monitors to security cameras, make up the Internet of Things that officials warned can pose increased cybersecurity threats. In a briefing, officials announced that as per the new programme, companies would be able to qualify display labels on their products signifying they meet certain cybersecurity standards. Anne Neuberger, White House deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, said, "We now routinely rely on internet and Bluetooth-enabled devices for tasks as basic as adjusting our thermostat and as complex as securing our homes while we're away." Neuberger warned that poorly secured products can enable attackers to gain footholds in American homes and offices and steal data or cause disruption. Programme hopefully to start next year According to a report by the news agency AFP on Tuesday, the programme set up under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), is hoped to be up and running by next year after a public comment period. "Consumers can have peace of mind that the products that they're bringing into their homes adhere to widely accepted security and privacy standards," FCC chair Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said of US-endorsed cyber trust labels. Rosenworcel added that product makers would be able to use the marks to differentiate offerings in the marketplace when they meet the standards The companies taking part in the programme Officials said that the companies taking part in the programme include Amazon, Google, LG Electronics, and Samsung. Citing data from cybersecurity firm SonicWall, the report also said that the amount of malicious software aimed at devices in the internet-of-things "jumped dramatically", with many of the attacks centred in North America. (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.

US: White House announces proposed cyber safety mark for connected devices

<p>West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, a Democratic politician known for his conservative stance, is scheduled to address a bipartisan group in New Hampshire, a crucial state in the early presidential primaries. His appearance has sparked speculation that he may be considering running as a third-party candidate.</p>

<p>A former governor of West Virginia, Joe Manchin has served&nbsp;in the US Senate since 2010. At 75 years old, he is considered one of the most conservative Democratic senators. He has yet to announce whether he will seek re-election to his Senate seat, a decision he intends to make later this year.</p>

<h2><strong>Potential re-election challenge and third-party consideration</strong></h2>

<p>If Manchin chooses to run again, he is likely to face stiff competition from Governor Jim Justice, who is vying for the Republican Party nomination in the Senate race.</p>

<p>West Virginia has leaned heavily towards the Republican side in recent elections, voting overwhelmingly for Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/entrance-to-underworld-mysterious-tunnels-chambers-found-beneath-ancient-church-in-mexico-616477">Entrance to underworld? Mysterious tunnels, chambers found beneath ancient church in Mexico</a></p>

<p>Additionally, Manchin has not ruled out the possibility of running as an independent candidate for the White House, which has generated interest and concern among political observers.</p>

<h2><strong>No Labels organisation and its mission</strong></h2>

<p>Manchin is set to speak at an event organised by the "No Labels" organisation, which advocates for the possibility of supporting third-party candidates.</p>

<p>In a statement, Manchin expressed his belief that Americans are frustrated with the deepening divide in political parties and the negative rhetoric from elected officials.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoke-rising-canadian-wildfires-places-60-million-us-residents-under-air-quality-alerts-616431">Smoke from Canadian wildfires places 60 million US residents under air quality alerts</a></p>

<p>"It is clear that most Americans are exceedingly frustrated by the growing divide in our political parties and toxic political rhetoric from our elected leaders," Manchin said in a No Labels statement last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opinion polls suggest that neither the Democratic nor the Republican parties' top candidates for the 2024 White House race are garnering overwhelming support. Many Republicans have reservations about Donald Trump running again, and similarly, a significant number of Democrats are uncertain about Joe Biden seeking a second term.</p>

<h2><strong>No Labels' stance</strong></h2>

<p>The "No Labels" organisation, represented by co-chair Joe Lieberman, has stated that it will not field a candidate in the 2024 election if polling indicates that doing so would help elect the Democratic or Republican nominee. Their goal is not to be disruptive to the electoral process.</p>

<p>With over a decade in Congress, Manchin has at times complicated legislative efforts championed by his party's leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>Nevertheless, Democratic leaders have treated him with caution as his support has been crucial for maintaining the party's majority in the Senate.</p>

<p>Democrats currently hold a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate. However, the 2024 Senate races present a challenging landscape for the party, with tough contests projected in states like Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.</p>

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West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, a Democratic politician known for his conservative stance, is scheduled to address a bipartisan group in New Hampshire, a crucial state in the early presidential primaries.

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, a Democratic politician known for his conservative stance, is scheduled to address a bipartisan group in New Hampshire, a crucial state in the early presidential primaries. His appearance has sparked speculation that he may be considering running as a third-party candidate. A former governor of West Virginia, Joe Manchin has served in the US Senate since 2010. At 75 years old, he is considered one of the most conservative Democratic senators. He has yet to announce whether he will seek re-election to his Senate seat, a decision he intends to make later this year. Potential re-election challenge and third-party consideration If Manchin chooses to run again, he is likely to face stiff competition from Governor Jim Justice, who is vying for the Republican Party nomination in the Senate race. West Virginia has leaned heavily towards the Republican side in recent elections, voting overwhelmingly for Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020. Also Read | Entrance to underworld? Mysterious tunnels, chambers found beneath ancient church in Mexico Additionally, Manchin has not ruled out the possibility of running as an independent candidate for the White House, which has generated interest and concern among political observers. No Labels organisation and its mission Manchin is set to speak at an event organised by the "No Labels" organisation, which advocates for the possibility of supporting third-party candidates. In a statement, Manchin expressed his belief that Americans are frustrated with the deepening divide in political parties and the negative rhetoric from elected officials. Also Read | Smoke from Canadian wildfires places 60 million US residents under air quality alerts "It is clear that most Americans are exceedingly frustrated by the growing divide in our political parties and toxic political rhetoric from our elected leaders," Manchin said in a No Labels statement last week. Opinion polls suggest that neither the Democratic nor the Republican parties' top candidates for the 2024 White House race are garnering overwhelming support. Many Republicans have reservations about Donald Trump running again, and similarly, a significant number of Democrats are uncertain about Joe Biden seeking a second term. No Labels' stance The "No Labels" organisation, represented by co-chair Joe Lieberman, has stated that it will not field a candidate in the 2024 election if polling indicates that doing so would help elect the Democratic or Republican nominee. Their goal is not to be disruptive to the electoral process. With over a decade in Congress, Manchin has at times complicated legislative efforts championed by his party's leaders. Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv × Nevertheless, Democratic leaders have treated him with caution as his support has been crucial for maintaining the party's majority in the Senate. Democrats currently hold a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate. However, the 2024 Senate races present a challenging landscape for the party, with tough contests projected in states like Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The election is scheduled for November 5, 2024. 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. ×

US: Senator Joe Manchin's scheduled speech fuels speculation of 2024 White House run

The US Secret service has concluded its investigation into the discovery of cocaine at the White House. The officials have been unable to identify a suspect due to lack of fingerprints & video proof. Biden's critics say this is a cover-up. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: No suspect identified in White House Cocaine investigation

<p>The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This launch is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region," National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement.</p>

<p>South Korea's military said that North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile in a lofted trajectory from the Pyongyang area at about 10:00 am (0100 GMT).</p>

<p>The missile launch happened after North Korea cautioned the United States to shoot down the spy planes that violated its airspace.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-suspected-long-range-ballistic-missile-12th-this-year-614512">North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year</a></p>

<p>Currently, the relations between both the Korean countries are facing a setback with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapon development, including tactical nukes.</p>

<p>The latest test launch "demonstrates that the DPRK continues to prioritize its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people," Hodge said.</p>

<p>"We urge all countries to condemn these violations and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations," the spokesman added.</p>

<p>"The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilizing actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement," he continued, stressing the United States will "take all necessary measures" to ensure its security and that of its allies South Korea and Japan. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>North Korea condemns US&nbsp;for violating airspace</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, North Korea had accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights.</p>

<p>It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times".</p>

<p>"There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency.</p>

<p>Pyongyang further released a statement and slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security.</p>

<p>"The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated.</p>

<p>"Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations.

The United States on Wednesday released a statement saying that it "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest ballistic projectile launch and also urged Pyongyang to end its destabilising actions and come to the table for negotiations. "This launch is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region," National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement. South Korea's military said that North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile in a lofted trajectory from the Pyongyang area at about 10:00 am (0100 GMT). The missile launch happened after North Korea cautioned the United States to shoot down the spy planes that violated its airspace. Also read: North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year Currently, the relations between both the Korean countries are facing a setback with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapon development, including tactical nukes. The latest test launch "demonstrates that the DPRK continues to prioritize its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people," Hodge said. "We urge all countries to condemn these violations and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations," the spokesman added. "The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilizing actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement," he continued, stressing the United States will "take all necessary measures" to ensure its security and that of its allies South Korea and Japan. North Korea condemns US for violating airspace On Monday, North Korea had accused the United States of violating its airspace by carrying out surveillance flights and stated that, even though Pyongyang was exercising restraint, and warned it may shoot down such flights. It further condemned the plans of Washington of deploying a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. North Korea's Ministry of National Defence spokesperson said "provocative" flights were flown by US spy aircraft this month, as one reconnaissance plane intruded into the country's airspace over the East Sea "several times". "There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," said the spokesperson in a statement, released by the official Korean Central News Agency. Pyongyang further released a statement and slammed United States' plan to deploy strategic nuclear assets to the Korean peninsula as "the most undisguised nuclear blackmail" to North Korea which poses a grave threat to global and regional security. "The present situation clearly proves that the situation of the Korean peninsula is coming closer to the threshold of nuclear conflict due to the US provocative military action," it stated. "Whether the extreme situation, desired by nobody, is created or not on the Korean peninsula depends on the future action of the US, and if any sudden situation happens ... the US will be held totally accountable for it," it added. (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.

United States 'strongly condemns' North Korea ballistic missile launch, says White House

<p>NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London. He held meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles III.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Biden's July 9 to13 trip has a strategic focus on strengthening NATO alliances. Apart from UK and Lithuania (for the NATO summit), the president will also be making a stop in Finland.</p>

<p>Biden and Sunak discussed the Ukraine conflict as the leaders prepare for an important NATO meeting in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-will-back-swedens-nato-bid-if-eu-embraces-ankara-says-erdogan-613983">'Turkey will back Sweden's NATO bid if EU embraces Ankara', says Erdogan</a></p>

<p>On the long-standing issue of Ukraine joining NATO, Biden stressed the war in Ukraine must end before the alliance can consider inviting Kyiv to join. &nbsp; Earlier, in conversation with CNN, Biden said, “I don’t think it’s ready for membership in NATO.”</p>

<p>He said NATO requires all countries who are keen on joining the bloc to “meet all the qualifications, from democratisation to a whole range of other issues.”</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy surrounding cluster munitions</strong></h2>

<p>Biden and Sunak also discussed the US decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, which received condemnation from various countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK is among the 123 nations that have signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global agreement that bans the use, transfer, manufacturing, and accumulation of cluster bombs.</p>

<p>UK has a long-standing position of discouraging the use of these weapons, which Sunak reiterated hours before meeting Biden.&nbsp;“The UK is a signatory to a convention which prohibits the production or use of cluster munitions and discourages their use,” Sunak said before the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although legally prohibited from supplying the bombs themselves, Sunak during his meeting with Biden, acknowledged the difficult decision made by the US.</p>

<p>This came days after Biden said that decision to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions was a “difficult” one. Biden also stated that he made the move because “Ukrainians are running out of ammunition”.</p>

<h2><strong>First meeting with King Charles</strong></h2>

<p>Biden had a long-awaited meeting with King Charles since his coronation, which the president had missed. At a Windsor Castle meeting, they discussed climate issues over a cup of tea.&nbsp;The king's spokesperson remarked on the warm personal connection between them.&nbsp;<br type="_moz" />
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigation-into-greek-shipwreck-suggests-coastguard-responsible-for-sinking-report-613990">Investigation into Greek shipwreck suggests coastguard responsible for sinking: Report</a></p>

<p>The meeting between the King and the US president was described as friendly and fruitful, although specific details of their conversation were not disclosed except that they discussed various matters of shared interest and concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Upcoming NATO summit</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;
<p>The highly-anticipated NATO summit is the focal point of Biden's trip. The summit will involve debates on the Ukraine conflict and the revision of plans to address Russian aggression.&nbsp;</p>
</p>

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<p>The final leg of Biden's trip will be in Helsinki, where he is expected to celebrate Finland's inclusion as the newest member of NATO, on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>Arrival in Vilnius&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Biden later arrived at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania, where he was warmly welcomed by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda.</p>

<p>The US ambassador to Lithuania, Robert Gilchrist, and Lithuania's ambassador to the United States, Audra Plepyte, were also present to greet Biden.</p>

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NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London.

NATO summit, which is scheduled to take place in Lithuania on 11–12 July, and the Ukraine conflict took centre stage as US President Joe Biden kicked off his trip to Europe with a visit to London. He held meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles III. Biden's July 9 to13 trip has a strategic focus on strengthening NATO alliances. Apart from UK and Lithuania (for the NATO summit), the president will also be making a stop in Finland. Biden and Sunak discussed the Ukraine conflict as the leaders prepare for an important NATO meeting in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Also Read | 'Turkey will back Sweden's NATO bid if EU embraces Ankara', says Erdogan On the long-standing issue of Ukraine joining NATO, Biden stressed the war in Ukraine must end before the alliance can consider inviting Kyiv to join. Earlier, in conversation with CNN, Biden said, “I don’t think it’s ready for membership in NATO.” He said NATO requires all countries who are keen on joining the bloc to “meet all the qualifications, from democratisation to a whole range of other issues.” Controversy surrounding cluster munitions Biden and Sunak also discussed the US decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, which received condemnation from various countries. The UK is among the 123 nations that have signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, a global agreement that bans the use, transfer, manufacturing, and accumulation of cluster bombs. UK has a long-standing position of discouraging the use of these weapons, which Sunak reiterated hours before meeting Biden. “The UK is a signatory to a convention which prohibits the production or use of cluster munitions and discourages their use,” Sunak said before the meeting. Although legally prohibited from supplying the bombs themselves, Sunak during his meeting with Biden, acknowledged the difficult decision made by the US. This came days after Biden said that decision to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions was a “difficult” one. Biden also stated that he made the move because “Ukrainians are running out of ammunition”. First meeting with King Charles Biden had a long-awaited meeting with King Charles since his coronation, which the president had missed. At a Windsor Castle meeting, they discussed climate issues over a cup of tea. The king's spokesperson remarked on the warm personal connection between them. Also Read | Investigation into Greek shipwreck suggests coastguard responsible for sinking: Report The meeting between the King and the US president was described as friendly and fruitful, although specific details of their conversation were not disclosed except that they discussed various matters of shared interest and concern. Upcoming NATO summit The highly-anticipated NATO summit is the focal point of Biden's trip. The summit will involve debates on the Ukraine conflict and the revision of plans to address Russian aggression. Watch | 'Safeguarding reefs': Theme of Florida Music Festival × The final leg of Biden's trip will be in Helsinki, where he is expected to celebrate Finland's inclusion as the newest member of NATO, on Thursday. Arrival in Vilnius Biden later arrived at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania, where he was warmly welcomed by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda. The US ambassador to Lithuania, Robert Gilchrist, and Lithuania's ambassador to the United States, Audra Plepyte, were also present to greet Biden. 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. ×

Biden's European trip commences in London, focus on Ukraine conflict and NATO Summit

Cocaine was found in the West Wing of the White House. The white powder was discovered at a storage facility by the Secret Service during a routine inspection. Who brought drugs into the White House? Is the incident an eye-opener on America's drug problem? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Secret Service currently investigating the incident of cocaine found in White House

Cocaine found in the West Wing of the White House | America's drug problem

<p>The White House said Friday that Sweden's membership in NATO will receive final approval soon. According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, there is a possibility that Turkey and Hungary will withdraw their opposition at the upcoming NATO summit. However, even if they do not, the White House said it remains optimistic that Sweden's membership will be approved in the "not too distant future." During a press briefing, Sullivan said that there is "goodwill" within the alliance regarding Sweden's bid to join the transatlantic alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Ultimate security guarantee' for Poland</strong></h2>

<p>Jake Sullivan also touched upon concerns over Russia's deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in neighbouring Belarus. Sullivan said that Article 5 of NATO serves as the "ultimate security guarantee" for Poland and neighbouring states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ditch-baggage-rent-clothes-what-is-the-new-trend-sparked-by-japan-airlines-613225">Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines?</a></p>

<p>NATO's Article 5 outlines the concept of collective defence which means that an armed attack against one member of NATO will be considered an attack against all members.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's NATO membership</strong></h2>

<p>White House announced that members will discuss the necessary steps for Kyiv to qualify for NATO membership at the summit in Vilnius next week.&nbsp;The leaders attending the summit will aim to resolve divisions regarding Ukraine's membership aspirations and address Turkey's opposition to Sweden's inclusion.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-prigozhin-never-went-to-belarus-used-body-double-to-appear-as-if-he-fled-us-official-613222">Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official</a></p>

<p>The summit will be guarded by Patriot missile batteries, fighter jets, and forces from 17 nations, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The summit will be attended by 31 NATO leaders, including US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, German Chancellor Ola Scholz and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri</strong></p>

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<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to participate.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'A difficult decision': Biden on providing cluster munitions to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden described the decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine as a "difficult" one.</p>

<p>"I discussed this with our allies," Biden told CNN media portal adding, "The Ukrainians are running out of ammunition."</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for a "much-needed" defense package, particularly cluster munitions.&nbsp;"A timely, broad and much-needed defense aid package from the United States," Zelensky said and added, "expansion of Ukraine's defense capabilities will provide new tools for the de-occupation of our land and bringing peace closer."</p>

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The White House said Friday that Sweden's membership in NATO will receive final approval soon. According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, there is a possibility that Turkey and Hungary will withdraw their opposition at the upcoming NATO summit.

The White House said Friday that Sweden's membership in NATO will receive final approval soon. According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, there is a possibility that Turkey and Hungary will withdraw their opposition at the upcoming NATO summit. However, even if they do not, the White House said it remains optimistic that Sweden's membership will be approved in the "not too distant future." During a press briefing, Sullivan said that there is "goodwill" within the alliance regarding Sweden's bid to join the transatlantic alliance. 'Ultimate security guarantee' for Poland Jake Sullivan also touched upon concerns over Russia's deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in neighbouring Belarus. Sullivan said that Article 5 of NATO serves as the "ultimate security guarantee" for Poland and neighbouring states. Also Read | Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines? NATO's Article 5 outlines the concept of collective defence which means that an armed attack against one member of NATO will be considered an attack against all members. Ukraine's NATO membership White House announced that members will discuss the necessary steps for Kyiv to qualify for NATO membership at the summit in Vilnius next week. The leaders attending the summit will aim to resolve divisions regarding Ukraine's membership aspirations and address Turkey's opposition to Sweden's inclusion. Also Read | Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official The summit will be guarded by Patriot missile batteries, fighter jets, and forces from 17 nations, media reports said. The summit will be attended by 31 NATO leaders, including US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, German Chancellor Ola Scholz and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri × Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to participate. 'A difficult decision': Biden on providing cluster munitions to Ukraine US President Joe Biden described the decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine as a "difficult" one. "I discussed this with our allies," Biden told CNN media portal adding, "The Ukrainians are running out of ammunition." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for a "much-needed" defense package, particularly cluster munitions. "A timely, broad and much-needed defense aid package from the United States," Zelensky said and added, "expansion of Ukraine's defense capabilities will provide new tools for the de-occupation of our land and bringing peace closer." 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. ×

Sweden's NATO membership approval soon: White House

<p>With the aim of exerting pressure on Russia to de-escalate the conflict and to aid Kyiv with weapons to defend its territory, the White House confirmed Friday that the US will supply Ukraine with cluster-style artillery rounds. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters at a press briefing that Kyiv has provided written assurances that the controversial weapons would be used carefully to minimise civilian risk.</p>

<p>Sullivan said that Ukraine's forces are currently firing thousands of rounds daily to repel Russian advances and reclaim their sovereign territory.</p>

<p>The decision to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions from existing US stocks was made to ensure a steady flow of arms for their defense, Sullivan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ditch-baggage-rent-clothes-what-is-the-new-trend-sparked-by-japan-airlines-613225">Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines?</a></p>

<p>“We have provided Ukraine with a historic amount of unitary artillery rounds and we are ramping up domestic production of these rounds. We’ve already seen substantial increases in production, but this process will continue to take time, and it will be critical to provide Ukraine with a bridge of supplies. While our domestic production is ramped up,” he said adding, “we will not leave Ukraine defenceless at any point in this conflict period”.</p>

<p>The US-made shells provided to Ukraine have a significantly lower failure rate, Sullivan revealed and said that Ukraine's government has committed to post-war demining efforts to protect civilians from unexploded submunitions.</p>

<p>He said unexploded submunitions have caused harm in previous conflict zones for extended periods, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sullivan drew a distinction between Russia's use of cluster munitions on Ukrainian territory and Ukraine's intention to use them for self-defense.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-prigozhin-never-went-to-belarus-used-body-double-to-appear-as-if-he-fled-us-official-613222">Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official</a></p>

<p>The national security team unanimously recommended the provision of cluster munitions, and President Biden, in consultation with allies, partners, and members of Congress, ultimately decided to move forward with the step, he noted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pentagon announces $800 million military aid package to Ukraine, including cluster munitions</strong></h2>

<p>In a press briefing at the Pentagon on Friday, Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin H Kahl announced a new military aid package worth approximately $800 million for Ukraine, which includes the provision of cluster munitions.</p>

<p>The aid package comprises 155mm artillery rounds, including Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICM), as well as 105mm artillery rounds, media reports said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the package includes additional munitions for Patriot air defense systems and ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket systems. It also consists of supplementary Stryker armored personnel carriers, precision aerial munitions, demolition munitions, obstacle clearing systems, various spare parts, and operational sustainment equipment.</p>

<p>President Biden's choice to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine has caused dissatisfaction among a significant number of Democrats, who argue that his administration's decision jeopardises the moral position of the United States.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri</strong></p>

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<p>In the same vein as Sullivan's statements to media personnel, Kahl also stressed that the Ukrainian government has provided assurances to the US regarding the responsible use of DPICM saying these assurances include a commitment not to deploy the rounds in civilian-populated urban areas.</p>

<p>Kahl highlighted that the cluster munitions provided to Ukraine by the US will be the most modern DPICM with a "dud" rate (failure rate) of under 2.35 per cent.</p>

<p>This stands in stark contrast to the cluster munitions used by Russia in Ukraine, which reportedly have dud rates ranging from 30 per cent&nbsp;to 40 per cent, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cluster munitions are a type of explosive weapon designed to disperse submunitions, also known as bomblets or cluster submunitions, over a wide area. These munitions are typically delivered from aircraft or ground-based artillery systems and are designed to cause widespread damage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While over 100 nations have signed the 2008 Oslo Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans the use of such weapons, the US, Russia, and Ukraine are not signatories to the treaty.</p>

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With the aim of exerting pressure on Russia to de-escalate the conflict and to aid Kyiv with weapons to defend its territory, the White House confirmed Friday that the US will supply Ukraine with cluster-style artillery rounds.

With the aim of exerting pressure on Russia to de-escalate the conflict and to aid Kyiv with weapons to defend its territory, the White House confirmed Friday that the US will supply Ukraine with cluster-style artillery rounds. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters at a press briefing that Kyiv has provided written assurances that the controversial weapons would be used carefully to minimise civilian risk. Sullivan said that Ukraine's forces are currently firing thousands of rounds daily to repel Russian advances and reclaim their sovereign territory. The decision to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions from existing US stocks was made to ensure a steady flow of arms for their defense, Sullivan added. Also Read | Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines? “We have provided Ukraine with a historic amount of unitary artillery rounds and we are ramping up domestic production of these rounds. We’ve already seen substantial increases in production, but this process will continue to take time, and it will be critical to provide Ukraine with a bridge of supplies. While our domestic production is ramped up,” he said adding, “we will not leave Ukraine defenceless at any point in this conflict period”. The US-made shells provided to Ukraine have a significantly lower failure rate, Sullivan revealed and said that Ukraine's government has committed to post-war demining efforts to protect civilians from unexploded submunitions. He said unexploded submunitions have caused harm in previous conflict zones for extended periods, media reports said. Sullivan drew a distinction between Russia's use of cluster munitions on Ukrainian territory and Ukraine's intention to use them for self-defense. Also Read | Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official The national security team unanimously recommended the provision of cluster munitions, and President Biden, in consultation with allies, partners, and members of Congress, ultimately decided to move forward with the step, he noted. Pentagon announces $800 million military aid package to Ukraine, including cluster munitions In a press briefing at the Pentagon on Friday, Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin H Kahl announced a new military aid package worth approximately $800 million for Ukraine, which includes the provision of cluster munitions. The aid package comprises 155mm artillery rounds, including Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICM), as well as 105mm artillery rounds, media reports said. Additionally, the package includes additional munitions for Patriot air defense systems and ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket systems. It also consists of supplementary Stryker armored personnel carriers, precision aerial munitions, demolition munitions, obstacle clearing systems, various spare parts, and operational sustainment equipment. President Biden's choice to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine has caused dissatisfaction among a significant number of Democrats, who argue that his administration's decision jeopardises the moral position of the United States. Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri × In the same vein as Sullivan's statements to media personnel, Kahl also stressed that the Ukrainian government has provided assurances to the US regarding the responsible use of DPICM saying these assurances include a commitment not to deploy the rounds in civilian-populated urban areas. Kahl highlighted that the cluster munitions provided to Ukraine by the US will be the most modern DPICM with a "dud" rate (failure rate) of under 2.35 per cent. This stands in stark contrast to the cluster munitions used by Russia in Ukraine, which reportedly have dud rates ranging from 30 per cent to 40 per cent, he added. Cluster munitions are a type of explosive weapon designed to disperse submunitions, also known as bomblets or cluster submunitions, over a wide area. These munitions are typically delivered from aircraft or ground-based artillery systems and are designed to cause widespread damage. While over 100 nations have signed the 2008 Oslo Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans the use of such weapons, the US, Russia, and Ukraine are not signatories to the treaty. 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. ×

US to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions, confirms White House

80-year-old Joe Biden has been dogged by salacious reporting over his son Hunter's troubled private life. The trained lawyer's battle with severe drug addiction has been well-documented. The cocaine revelation immediately sparked unsubstantiated speculation in right-wing circles that the recovering drug user was somehow responsible. Trump himself jumped on the bandwagon with a typically rambling, insult-laden message.

Cocaine at White House: Republicans flag Hunter Biden's well-documented battle with drug addiction

80-year-old Joe Biden has been dogged by salacious reporting over his son Hunter's troubled private life. The trained lawyer's battle with severe drug addiction has been well-documented. The cocaine revelation immediately sparked unsubstantiated speculation in right-wing circles that the recovering drug user was somehow responsible. Trump himself jumped on the bandwagon with a typically rambling, insult-laden message. The former President said - does anybody really believe the Cocaine is for the use by anyone other than Hunter & Joe Biden? Republican leader Ron DeSantis, long viewed as the most viable challenger to twice-impeached president Donald Trump, also hit out. The Florida Governor told outkick host Tomi Lahren - a lot of us have believed, Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts.

Cocaine at White House: Cameras, visitor logs searched by Secret Service

Cocaine was found in the West Wing of the White House during a routine search by the Secret Service. The discovery led to an evacuation; the White House was also closed down. But who brought drugs into the White House? Molly Gambhir tells you how the incident exposes America's drug problem.

Gravitas: Cocaine in White House exposes America's drug problem

<p>A white powder found in a work area of the West Wing of the White House is confirmed to be cocaine. The question of who brought cocaine into the White House and how it entered what is often deemed as one of the most-secured spots on the planet has made people curious.</p>

<p>The White House press secretary has said that all staffers would be tested if needed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The West Wing houses the Oval Office and also the offices of some of the top aides to the president and support staff. According to a report in CBS News, the substance was found in a zip-close bag near an entrance where visitors are directed to leave their phones.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-drugs-entered-restricted-area-of-white-house-five-key-points-612208">How drugs entered restricted area of White House? Five key points</a></strong></p>

<p>Now a former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino has reacted to the incident and said that there is no chance that anybody other than a family member could have brought that cocaine into the White House.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;'Cocaine' discovered in White House by Secret Service agents, evacuations follow | Details</strong></p>

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<p>"There’s absolutely ZERO chance anyone other than a family member brought that cocaine inside the White House complex. No chance that would make it past the mag/security checkpoints. Family bypasses those," former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p>Earlier, during a routine press briefing, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that President Biden was informed of the incident and asserted that the area where the cocaine was discovered is "heavily travelled" by visitors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When it comes to visitors to the West Wing, they come for many reasons, obviously we do have West Wing tours that occur here on campus," she said, adding tours took place Friday, Saturday and Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US Secret Service is currently leading a review of how the cocaine got into the West Wing, law enforcement officials told the media.</p>

<h2><strong>White House cocaine row: Trump, DeSantis react</strong></h2>

<p>Immediately after the discovery of cocaine prompted an evacuation of the White House, the chatter on and off the internet pointed the fingers of suspicions at Hunter Biden, one of the sons of US President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Former US President and Republican front-runner for the 2024 US elections Donald Trump launched an all-out attack against the cocaine row.</p>

<p>"Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter &amp; Joe Biden," Donald Trump posted on Truth Social.</p>

<p>"But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was 'very small', and it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, and&nbsp;the story will vanish," added Trump in his angry tirade on the matter.</p>

<p>Republican 2024 presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis also took a dig at the discovery of cocaine in the White House and told Outkick host Tomi Lahren: &nbsp;"I have long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought."</p>

<p>Hunter Biden has opened up about his struggles with drug addiction in his memoir <em>Beautiful Things</em>, stating that at one point of time in his life, he was "smoking crack every 15 minutes".</p>

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A white powder found in a work area of the West Wing of the White House is confirmed to be cocaine. The question of who brought cocaine into the White House and how it entered what is often deemed as one of the most-secured spots on the planet has made people curious.

A white powder found in a work area of the West Wing of the White House is confirmed to be cocaine. The question of who brought cocaine into the White House and how it entered what is often deemed as one of the most-secured spots on the planet has made people curious. The White House press secretary has said that all staffers would be tested if needed. The West Wing houses the Oval Office and also the offices of some of the top aides to the president and support staff. According to a report in CBS News, the substance was found in a zip-close bag near an entrance where visitors are directed to leave their phones. Also read | How drugs entered restricted area of White House? Five key points Now a former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino has reacted to the incident and said that there is no chance that anybody other than a family member could have brought that cocaine into the White House. Also watch | 'Cocaine' discovered in White House by Secret Service agents, evacuations follow | Details × "There’s absolutely ZERO chance anyone other than a family member brought that cocaine inside the White House complex. No chance that would make it past the mag/security checkpoints. Family bypasses those," former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino wrote on Twitter. Earlier, during a routine press briefing, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that President Biden was informed of the incident and asserted that the area where the cocaine was discovered is "heavily travelled" by visitors. "When it comes to visitors to the West Wing, they come for many reasons, obviously we do have West Wing tours that occur here on campus," she said, adding tours took place Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The US Secret Service is currently leading a review of how the cocaine got into the West Wing, law enforcement officials told the media. White House cocaine row: Trump, DeSantis react Immediately after the discovery of cocaine prompted an evacuation of the White House, the chatter on and off the internet pointed the fingers of suspicions at Hunter Biden, one of the sons of US President Joe Biden. Former US President and Republican front-runner for the 2024 US elections Donald Trump launched an all-out attack against the cocaine row. "Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter & Joe Biden," Donald Trump posted on Truth Social. "But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was 'very small', and it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, and the story will vanish," added Trump in his angry tirade on the matter. Republican 2024 presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis also took a dig at the discovery of cocaine in the White House and told Outkick host Tomi Lahren: "I have long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought." Hunter Biden has opened up about his struggles with drug addiction in his memoir Beautiful Things, stating that at one point of time in his life, he was "smoking crack every 15 minutes". 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.

White House staffers could be drug-tested amid spotlight on Hunter Biden over 'cocaine' row

<p>Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rivals of Biden from the Republican Party, former US president Donald Trump and 2024 presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, launched scathing attacks on the president in the wake of the shocking discovery of cocaine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter &amp; Joe Biden,” posted former President Donald Trump on Truth Social. “But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was ‘very small,’ &amp; it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, &amp; the story will vanish,” Trump added, in his angry tirade on the matter.</p>

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<h2><strong>Biden administration blowing it on a lot of fronts: DeSantis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Florida's current governor and Republican presidential hopeful DeSantis took a dig at the administration of Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-in-the-white-house-found-where-west-wing-visitors-taking-tours-leave-cellphones-report-612438">Cocaine in White House found where West Wing visitors taking tours leave cellphones: Report</a></p>

<p>“I’ve long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought,” DeSantis said while speaking to Outkick host Tomi Lahren.</p>

<p>“I can tell you in Florida, my wife and I, we have a six, five and a three-year-old running around the governor’s mansion. So that’s not something that we see. We do have to occasionally get slime out of the carpet and get marker off the wallpaper,” he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the officials of the White House and Secret Service did not reveal how the drug reached inside such a highly secured place like the White House.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Cocaine in White House exposes America's drug problem</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Addict' Hunter Biden in spotlight after White House cocaine recovery</h2>

<p>Amidst all the drama surrounding cocaine discovery, the political opponents of Biden and social media users have also been pointing fingers at Biden's son Hunter Biden who recently confessed about struggling with addiction to cocaine, in his memoir “Beautiful Things”.</p>

<p>In his memoir, Hunter Biden has talked about how he dealt with issues of substance abuse in his life, which included alcohol and crack cocaine. The son of President Biden was discharged from the US Navy Reserve in 2014 after he tested positive for cocaine, sources stated.&nbsp;</p>

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Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away.

Joe Biden and his family members appear to be in a 'political soup' after cocaine was discovered in the West Wing of the White House on Sunday while the US president was away. The rivals of Biden from the Republican Party, former US president Donald Trump and 2024 presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, launched scathing attacks on the president in the wake of the shocking discovery of cocaine. “Does anybody really believe that the COCAINE found in the West Wing of the White House, very close to the Oval Office, is for the use of anyone other than Hunter & Joe Biden,” posted former President Donald Trump on Truth Social. “But watch, the Fake News Media will soon start saying that the amount found was ‘very small,’ & it wasn’t really COCAINE, but rather common ground up Aspirin, & the story will vanish,” Trump added, in his angry tirade on the matter. × Biden administration blowing it on a lot of fronts: DeSantis Florida's current governor and Republican presidential hopeful DeSantis took a dig at the administration of Biden. ALSO READ | Cocaine in White House found where West Wing visitors taking tours leave cellphones: Report “I’ve long believed, I think a lot of us have believed, that the Biden administration has been blowing it on a lot of fronts. But I guess it’s a little bit more literal than even I had thought,” DeSantis said while speaking to Outkick host Tomi Lahren. “I can tell you in Florida, my wife and I, we have a six, five and a three-year-old running around the governor’s mansion. So that’s not something that we see. We do have to occasionally get slime out of the carpet and get marker off the wallpaper,” he stated. Meanwhile, the officials of the White House and Secret Service did not reveal how the drug reached inside such a highly secured place like the White House. WATCH | Gravitas: Cocaine in White House exposes America's drug problem 'Addict' Hunter Biden in spotlight after White House cocaine recovery Amidst all the drama surrounding cocaine discovery, the political opponents of Biden and social media users have also been pointing fingers at Biden's son Hunter Biden who recently confessed about struggling with addiction to cocaine, in his memoir “Beautiful Things”. In his memoir, Hunter Biden has talked about how he dealt with issues of substance abuse in his life, which included alcohol and crack cocaine. The son of President Biden was discharged from the US Navy Reserve in 2014 after he tested positive for cocaine, sources stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House cocaine row: Trump says he has no doubt it was for 'use of Hunter and Joe Biden'

The discovery of cocaine in the White House has rocked the administration. The incident has not only prompted an in-depth probe but also subjected the White House to a barrage of questions as to how the drug made its way to a highly-guarded complex?

Drug menace in the US: Will White House staffers undergo drug test?

The discovery of cocaine in the White House has rocked the administration. The incident has not only prompted an in-depth probe but also subjected the White House to a barrage of questions as to how the drug made its way to a highly-guarded complex? Watch more in this interview with a Commentator on Fentanyl epidemic, Robert G Kanter.

US flags China's role in drug menace

<p>In the latest development in the probe launched into the discovery of cocaine at the White House, officials have found out that the stash of the drug was discovered near the place where "visitors taking tours of the West Wing are instructed to leave their cellphones," as per The Washington Post.</p>

<p>The Secret Service is probing how the drug ended up in the White House after the tests indicated that the substance found on the ground floor of the White House on Sunday was cocaine.</p>

<p>The staffers in the White House are authorised to give tours of the West Wing, which usually occur during the night or on the weekends.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The guests are required to go through a security check before entering the White House complex and are then asked to leave their phones in small boxes just before entering the West Wing. According to The Washington Post, the officials said that the substance was found near the boxes.</p>

<p>During the tours, the guests are shown the ground floor and the first floor of the West Wing. Guests on these tours can peek inside the Oval Office, the Cabinet Room and the Roosevelt Room.</p>

<p>A spokesman for the Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, as per The Washington Post,&nbsp;had previously said that the DC fire department determined that the substance, which was found in a “work area of the West Wing,” did not present a threat.</p>

<p>“An investigation into the cause and manner of how the substance entered the White House is ongoing,” The Washington Post quoted Guglielmi as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/discovery-of-cocaine-in-white-house-library-prompts-secret-service-investigation-611984">Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation</a></p>

<h2><strong>Where was President Joe Biden?</strong></h2>

<p>President Joe Biden, as per the report, was away at Camp David when the incident occurred, but he and First Lady Jill Biden returned to the White House on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official familiar with the investigation has revealed that the quantity of the substance was small.</p>

<p>While concerning, this is apparently not the first instance of illegal drugs having made their way into the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per The Guardian, previous revelations include rapper Snoop Dogg's claim of smoking weed in a bathroom in 2013, musician Willie Nelson confessing to smoking a joint on the White House roof during Jimmy Carter's presidency, British actor Erkan Mustafa admitting to using marijuana and cocaine during a visit to the White House amid Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" anti-drugs campaign, and Jefferson Airplane singer Grace Slick's unsuccessful attempt to spike President Richard Nixon's tea with LSD in 1970, remarking that she believed "Tricky Dick needs a little acid".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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In the latest development in the probe launched into the discovery of cocaine at the White House, officials have found out that the stash of the drug was discovered near the place where "visitors taking tours of the West Wing are instructed to leave their cellphones," as per The Washington Post.

In the latest development in the probe launched into the discovery of cocaine at the White House, officials have found out that the stash of the drug was discovered near the place where "visitors taking tours of the West Wing are instructed to leave their cellphones," as per The Washington Post. The Secret Service is probing how the drug ended up in the White House after the tests indicated that the substance found on the ground floor of the White House on Sunday was cocaine. The staffers in the White House are authorised to give tours of the West Wing, which usually occur during the night or on the weekends. The guests are required to go through a security check before entering the White House complex and are then asked to leave their phones in small boxes just before entering the West Wing. According to The Washington Post, the officials said that the substance was found near the boxes. During the tours, the guests are shown the ground floor and the first floor of the West Wing. Guests on these tours can peek inside the Oval Office, the Cabinet Room and the Roosevelt Room. A spokesman for the Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, as per The Washington Post, had previously said that the DC fire department determined that the substance, which was found in a “work area of the West Wing,” did not present a threat. “An investigation into the cause and manner of how the substance entered the White House is ongoing,” The Washington Post quoted Guglielmi as saying. Also read: Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation Where was President Joe Biden? President Joe Biden, as per the report, was away at Camp David when the incident occurred, but he and First Lady Jill Biden returned to the White House on Tuesday morning. An official familiar with the investigation has revealed that the quantity of the substance was small. While concerning, this is apparently not the first instance of illegal drugs having made their way into the White House. As per The Guardian, previous revelations include rapper Snoop Dogg's claim of smoking weed in a bathroom in 2013, musician Willie Nelson confessing to smoking a joint on the White House roof during Jimmy Carter's presidency, British actor Erkan Mustafa admitting to using marijuana and cocaine during a visit to the White House amid Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" anti-drugs campaign, and Jefferson Airplane singer Grace Slick's unsuccessful attempt to spike President Richard Nixon's tea with LSD in 1970, remarking that she believed "Tricky Dick needs a little acid". (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.

Cocaine in White House found where West Wing visitors taking tours leave cellphones: Report

US: Will staffers undergo drug test after cocaine found in White House?

The White House was briefly evacuated Sunday evening while President Joe Biden was at Camp David. The secret service discovered suspicious powder in a common area of the west wing, and law enforcement officials say that the initial test showed the substance was cocaine. Secret Service Agents were doing routine rounds when they found the white powder in an area accessible to tour groups, not in any particular west wing office.

'Cocaine' discovered in White House by Secret Service agents, evacuations follow | Details

<p>A white-coloured substance was found on Sunday night in a work area at the secure building of the White House during a routine inspection, and reports of the same emerged on Tuesday with the US Secret Service stating that the substance sparked an emergency evacuation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Secret Service spokesperson said in an emailed statement that the White House complex went into a precautionary closure as officers from the Secret Service Uniformed Division investigated an unknown item found inside a work area on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Secret Service spokesperson said that "the DC Fire Department was called to evaluate and quickly determined the item to be non-hazardous".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official added that there was an investigation into the cause and manner" to find out how exactly the substance entered the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-has-ignored-angry-china-opposes-washingtons-arms-sales-to-taiwan-612101">'United States has ignored...': Angry China opposes Washington's arms sales to Taiwan</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Here are answers to key questions:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>What was the substance?&nbsp;</strong><br />
The Washington Post first reported that the preliminary positive test of the substance showed that it was cocaine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Where was it found?</strong><br />
The powder was found in the West Wing, which is linked to the executive mansion where President Joe Biden lives. It houses the Oval Office, the cabinet room and press area, and offices and workspace for the president's staff.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Who all have access to the area?&nbsp;</strong><br />
The area where it was found has access to hundreds of people who work in or come through regularly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What was the immediate impact?</strong><br />
The Secret Service said that the "unknown item" led to the temporary closing of the White House complex.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Was there any danger to Biden and his family?&nbsp;</strong><br />
When the incident happened, Biden was not in the White House as he and his family returned from a weekend at the presidential retreat Camp David on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A white-coloured substance was found on Sunday night in a work area at the secure building of the White House during a routine inspection, and reports of the same emerged on Tuesday with the US Secret Service stating that the substance sparked an emergency evacuation.

A white-coloured substance was found on Sunday night in a work area at the secure building of the White House during a routine inspection, and reports of the same emerged on Tuesday with the US Secret Service stating that the substance sparked an emergency evacuation. A Secret Service spokesperson said in an emailed statement that the White House complex went into a precautionary closure as officers from the Secret Service Uniformed Division investigated an unknown item found inside a work area on Sunday. The Secret Service spokesperson said that "the DC Fire Department was called to evaluate and quickly determined the item to be non-hazardous". The official added that there was an investigation into the cause and manner" to find out how exactly the substance entered the White House. Also read: 'United States has ignored...': Angry China opposes Washington's arms sales to Taiwan Watch this report: × Here are answers to key questions: What was the substance? The Washington Post first reported that the preliminary positive test of the substance showed that it was cocaine. Where was it found? The powder was found in the West Wing, which is linked to the executive mansion where President Joe Biden lives. It houses the Oval Office, the cabinet room and press area, and offices and workspace for the president's staff. Who all have access to the area? The area where it was found has access to hundreds of people who work in or come through regularly. What was the immediate impact? The Secret Service said that the "unknown item" led to the temporary closing of the White House complex. Was there any danger to Biden and his family? When the incident happened, Biden was not in the White House as he and his family returned from a weekend at the presidential retreat Camp David on Tuesday morning. (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.

How drugs entered restricted area of White House? Five key points

<p>A stash of cocaine has been found at the White House premises. As per reports, US law enforcement authorities have revealed that a preliminary field test conducted on a white substance discovered in the White House library yielded positive results for cocaine.</p>

<p>The US Secret Service is now focused on determining how this illicit substance made its way into the highly secured premises of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, as per The Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>How did cocaine get into the White House?</strong></h2>

<p>The Secret Service is trying to find out exactly that.&nbsp;As per reports, the presence of the substance, which is currently undergoing further testing, was initially brought to notice when a firefighter from the Washington DC hazardous materials team radioed about finding a yellow bar labelled as cocaine hydrochloride. It was discovered during a routine inspection.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/too-soon-subways-insensitive-our-subs-dont-implode-sign-after-titan-tragedy-invites-criticism-611933">Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have a yellow bar saying cocaine hydrochloride," flagged the team as per the Washington Post.</p>

<p>Talking to the publication, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi revealed that the discovery prompted an immediate increase in security alert levels and a brief evacuation of the executive mansion as a precautionary measure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, confirmed that an investigation has been initiated to determine the cause and manner of the substance's entry into the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Where was President Joe Biden?</strong></h2>

<p>President Joe Biden, as per the report, was away at Camp David when the incident occurred, but he and First Lady Jill Biden returned to the White House on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-bathhouse-provides-rent-a-dad-service-to-keep-young-boys-out-of-women-only-areas-611834">China: Bathhouse provides 'rent-a-dad' service to keep young boys out of women-only areas</a></strong></p>

<p>An official familiar with the investigation has revealed that the quantity of the substance was small.</p>

<h2><strong>Not the first time&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While concerning, this is apparently not the first instance of illegal drugs having made their way into the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per The Guardian, previous revelations include rapper Snoop Dogg's claim of smoking weed in a bathroom in 2013, musician Willie Nelson confessing to smoking a joint on the White House roof during Jimmy Carter's presidency, British actor Erkan Mustafa admitting to using marijuana and cocaine during a visit to the White House amid Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" anti-drugs campaign, and Jefferson Airplane singer Grace Slick's unsuccessful attempt to spike President Richard Nixon's tea with LSD in 1970, remarking that she believed "Tricky Dick needs a little acid."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A stash of cocaine has been found at the White House premises. As per reports, US law enforcement authorities have revealed that a preliminary field test conducted on a white substance discovered in the White House library yielded positive results for cocaine.

A stash of cocaine has been found at the White House premises. As per reports, US law enforcement authorities have revealed that a preliminary field test conducted on a white substance discovered in the White House library yielded positive results for cocaine. The US Secret Service is now focused on determining how this illicit substance made its way into the highly secured premises of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, as per The Guardian. How did cocaine get into the White House? The Secret Service is trying to find out exactly that. As per reports, the presence of the substance, which is currently undergoing further testing, was initially brought to notice when a firefighter from the Washington DC hazardous materials team radioed about finding a yellow bar labelled as cocaine hydrochloride. It was discovered during a routine inspection. Also read | Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens "We have a yellow bar saying cocaine hydrochloride," flagged the team as per the Washington Post. Talking to the publication, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi revealed that the discovery prompted an immediate increase in security alert levels and a brief evacuation of the executive mansion as a precautionary measure. Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, confirmed that an investigation has been initiated to determine the cause and manner of the substance's entry into the White House. Where was President Joe Biden? President Joe Biden, as per the report, was away at Camp David when the incident occurred, but he and First Lady Jill Biden returned to the White House on Tuesday morning. Also read | China: Bathhouse provides 'rent-a-dad' service to keep young boys out of women-only areas An official familiar with the investigation has revealed that the quantity of the substance was small. Not the first time While concerning, this is apparently not the first instance of illegal drugs having made their way into the White House. As per The Guardian, previous revelations include rapper Snoop Dogg's claim of smoking weed in a bathroom in 2013, musician Willie Nelson confessing to smoking a joint on the White House roof during Jimmy Carter's presidency, British actor Erkan Mustafa admitting to using marijuana and cocaine during a visit to the White House amid Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" anti-drugs campaign, and Jefferson Airplane singer Grace Slick's unsuccessful attempt to spike President Richard Nixon's tea with LSD in 1970, remarking that she believed "Tricky Dick needs a little acid." (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.

Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation

The White House was briefly evacuated Sunday evening while President Joe Biden was at Camp David. The secret service discovered the suspicious powder in a common area of the west wing, and law enforcement officials say that the initial test showed the substance was cocaine. Secret Service Agents were doing routine rounds when they found the white powder in an area accessible to tour groups, not in any particular west wing office. The complex was reportedly evacuated at about 8:45 pm Sunday as fire and emergency crews were brought in to do a rapid test, which preliminarily identified cocaine. The White House was soon reopened and the powder was sent for further testing. In a statement, the secret service said the white house was closed as a precaution as emergency crews investigated. The District of Columbia fire department was called in to evaluate and determine that the substance was not hazardous.

'Cocaine' discovered in White House by Secret Service agents, evacuations follow

We're facing the biggest environmental challenge. Climate change is affecting every form of life. While Nations around the world are finding measures to deal with it. The US is aiming to stop sunrays from reaching the Earth. The US is looking forward to quite an innovative way to combat the effects of climate change.

Why is the White House pushing to block sunlight from reaching the Earth?

<p>The website of the White House has published a research document stating that the Biden&nbsp;administration is looking towards studying how the sunlight can be blocked to save the planet from the crisis of climate change.<br />
<br />
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy released a congressionally mandated report which showed that the designated team has been researching "geoengineering" methods to stop&nbsp;the sun's rays from accelerating global warming.<br />
<br />
As noted by the University of Oxford in its entry on the subject, "geoengineering" is "the deliberate large-scale intervention in the Earth’s natural systems to counteract climate change".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-why-there-is-giant-hole-in-indian-ocean-where-earths-gravity-is-at-weakest-610337">Scientists find why there is giant ‘hole' in Indian Ocean, where Earth’s gravity is at weakest</a></p>

<p>As per the report titled "Congressionally-Mandated Report on Solar Radiation Modification", the various kinds of geoengineering methods that the Biden administration is looking into are "stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) and marine cloud brightening." Additionally, the paper states that there is ongoing research in "cirrus cloud thinning".</p>

<h2><strong>Geoengineering - the way forward?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The report's introduction indicates that the research into "space-based approaches" has not been taking place as "geoengineering" is comparatively easy to implement.<br />
<br />
"The focus on atmospheric approaches also follows from their greater near-term feasibility relative to space-based approaches,” stated the document. No government policy is attached to the document as of yet as it is just a research document.<br />
<br />
"This Research Plan focuses on improving understanding of the potential impacts of SRM, rather than on technologies needed for deployment. Much of this research would contribute to our ability to understand basic climate processes and effects of human greenhouse gas emissions, as well as outcomes of SRM,” the document read.<br />
<br />
"A programme of research into the scientific and societal implications of solar radiation modification (SRM) would enable better-informed decisions about the potential risks and benefits of SRM as a component of climate policy,” the summary continued.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Earth's axis is shifting</strong></p>

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<p>The document did accept that the research could pave the way for corporate projects or a future government in this field. "Such a research programme would also help to prepare the United States for possible deployment of SRM by other public or private actors,” it stated.<br />
<br />
"SRM offers the possibility of cooling the planet significantly on a timescale of a few years,” it stated. The White House, in a separate statement, assured readers that "there are no plans underway to establish a comprehensive research programme focused on solar radiation modification."</p>

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The website of the White House has published a research document stating that the Biden administration is looking towards studying how the sunlight can be blocked to save the planet from the crisis of climate change.

The website of the White House has published a research document stating that the Biden administration is looking towards studying how the sunlight can be blocked to save the planet from the crisis of climate change. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy released a congressionally mandated report which showed that the designated team has been researching "geoengineering" methods to stop the sun's rays from accelerating global warming. As noted by the University of Oxford in its entry on the subject, "geoengineering" is "the deliberate large-scale intervention in the Earth’s natural systems to counteract climate change". ALSO READ | Scientists find why there is giant ‘hole' in Indian Ocean, where Earth’s gravity is at weakest As per the report titled "Congressionally-Mandated Report on Solar Radiation Modification", the various kinds of geoengineering methods that the Biden administration is looking into are "stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) and marine cloud brightening." Additionally, the paper states that there is ongoing research in "cirrus cloud thinning". Geoengineering - the way forward? The report's introduction indicates that the research into "space-based approaches" has not been taking place as "geoengineering" is comparatively easy to implement. "The focus on atmospheric approaches also follows from their greater near-term feasibility relative to space-based approaches,” stated the document. No government policy is attached to the document as of yet as it is just a research document. "This Research Plan focuses on improving understanding of the potential impacts of SRM, rather than on technologies needed for deployment. Much of this research would contribute to our ability to understand basic climate processes and effects of human greenhouse gas emissions, as well as outcomes of SRM,” the document read. "A programme of research into the scientific and societal implications of solar radiation modification (SRM) would enable better-informed decisions about the potential risks and benefits of SRM as a component of climate policy,” the summary continued. WATCH | Gravitas: Earth's axis is shifting The document did accept that the research could pave the way for corporate projects or a future government in this field. "Such a research programme would also help to prepare the United States for possible deployment of SRM by other public or private actors,” it stated. "SRM offers the possibility of cooling the planet significantly on a timescale of a few years,” it stated. The White House, in a separate statement, assured readers that "there are no plans underway to establish a comprehensive research programme focused on solar radiation modification." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House report hints at blocking sunlight to cool planet Earth

<p>A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States.</p>

<p>The official, who has not been named, told the New Delhi-based Hindustan Times newspaper that Obama made these comments in his private capacity as a citizen and had no coordination from the White House.</p>

<p>The official, however, added that President Joe Biden raised “every kind of issue” with Modi, as the Indian PM did with the US president "in a dignified and respectful way."</p>

<p>Speaking about the online vitriol a Wall Street Journal reporter had to face as a consequence of asking Modi&nbsp;questions about human rights, the official said that the US government believed in a free and open press, and didn’t support any kind of online harassment.</p>

<p>He pointed out that the vast majority of the commentary around the visit was positive and that’s what officials would like to focus on.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy over Barack Obama's remarks on Indian Muslims</strong></h2>

<p>A rather successful US trip by Modi was marred by an interview Obama gave to CNN during which he mentioned Modi and talked about the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Obama said the issue of the “protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India” would be worth raising in Modi’s meeting with Biden.</p>

<p>These “large internal conflicts”, Obama had said, would be contrary to the interests of both “Muslim India” and “Hindu India”, he said.</p>

<p>The former president said that without such protection there was “a strong possibility that India at some point starts pulling apart”.</p>

<p>The remarks were severely condemned in India, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leading the charge.</p>

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<h2><strong>Backlash in India</strong> against Obama's remarks</h2>

<p>Sitharaman said she was shocked Obama had made such remarks when Modi was visiting the US aiming to deepen relations.</p>

<p>“He was commenting on Indian Muslims … having bombed Muslim-majority countries from Syria to Yemen … during his presidency,” Sitharaman told a press conference. “Why would anyone listen to any allegations from such people?”</p>

<p>The chief minister of northeastern Assam state, Himanta Biswa Sarma, tweeted that there were many “Hussain Obama in India itself”, and Assam Police would act according to its own priorities.</p>

<p>At the press conference with Biden, Modi denied any discrimination against minorities under his government.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States.

A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States. The official, who has not been named, told the New Delhi-based Hindustan Times newspaper that Obama made these comments in his private capacity as a citizen and had no coordination from the White House. The official, however, added that President Joe Biden raised “every kind of issue” with Modi, as the Indian PM did with the US president "in a dignified and respectful way." Speaking about the online vitriol a Wall Street Journal reporter had to face as a consequence of asking Modi questions about human rights, the official said that the US government believed in a free and open press, and didn’t support any kind of online harassment. He pointed out that the vast majority of the commentary around the visit was positive and that’s what officials would like to focus on. Controversy over Barack Obama's remarks on Indian Muslims A rather successful US trip by Modi was marred by an interview Obama gave to CNN during which he mentioned Modi and talked about the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India. Obama said the issue of the “protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India” would be worth raising in Modi’s meeting with Biden. These “large internal conflicts”, Obama had said, would be contrary to the interests of both “Muslim India” and “Hindu India”, he said. The former president said that without such protection there was “a strong possibility that India at some point starts pulling apart”. The remarks were severely condemned in India, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leading the charge. Backlash in India against Obama's remarks Sitharaman said she was shocked Obama had made such remarks when Modi was visiting the US aiming to deepen relations. “He was commenting on Indian Muslims … having bombed Muslim-majority countries from Syria to Yemen … during his presidency,” Sitharaman told a press conference. “Why would anyone listen to any allegations from such people?” The chief minister of northeastern Assam state, Himanta Biswa Sarma, tweeted that there were many “Hussain Obama in India itself”, and Assam Police would act according to its own priorities. At the press conference with Biden, Modi denied any discrimination against minorities under his government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Barack Obama’s remarks on India, PM Modi not coordinated with White House: US official

<p>US President Joe Biden, 80, suffers from sleep apnea and uses a CPAP or Continuous Airway Pressure Machine (CAPM) to treat the same, it has been revealed. The sitting US president, the commander-in-chief of the world's most powerful military, recently left the White House with noticeable marks on his face stoking questions on how fit he is to lead the United States.</p>

<p>"Since 2008, the president has disclosed his history with sleep apnea in thorough medical reports. He used a CPAP machine last night, which is common for people with that history," White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-_0-reasons-you-are-unable-to-sleep-547589">10 reasons you are unable to sleep</a></strong></p>

<p>Joe Biden is the oldest person to serve as the US President. He is currently seeking a second, four-year term in the 2024 presidential election despite his age becoming an issue of prominent concern among his own Democratic Party members.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption?</strong></p>

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<p>Joe Biden’s approval rating stands at 43 per cent in the latest NBC News national poll. This is not enough to translate into a re-election win. However, another 10 per cent of registered voters say they only "somewhat disapprove" of Biden’s performance. And in a hypothetical rematch with Trump, half of those voters say they would support Biden, while 39 per cent say they would back Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is sleep apnea?</strong></h2>

<p>Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes brief interruptions of breathing during sleep which can result in snoring, daytime fatigue and high blood pressure. Due to sleep apnea, throat muscles relax following which the flow of air into the lungs is blocked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If left untreated, it can cause forgetfulness, fatigue and sleepiness, even leading to cardiovascular disease because of the significant strain put on the heart.</p>

<h2><strong>What is a CPAP machine?</strong></h2>

<p>A CPAP or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine is a medical device that delivers a continuous flow of pressurised air to the airways, which thereby prevents them from collapsing.</p>

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US President Joe Biden, 80, suffers from sleep apnea and uses a CPAP or Continuous Airway Pressure Machine (CAPM) to treat the same, it has been revealed. The sitting US president, the commander-in-chief of the world's most powerful military, recently left the White House with noticeable marks on his face stoking questions on how fit he is to lead the United States.

US President Joe Biden, 80, suffers from sleep apnea and uses a CPAP or Continuous Airway Pressure Machine (CAPM) to treat the same, it has been revealed. The sitting US president, the commander-in-chief of the world's most powerful military, recently left the White House with noticeable marks on his face stoking questions on how fit he is to lead the United States. "Since 2008, the president has disclosed his history with sleep apnea in thorough medical reports. He used a CPAP machine last night, which is common for people with that history," White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said. Also read | 10 reasons you are unable to sleep Joe Biden is the oldest person to serve as the US President. He is currently seeking a second, four-year term in the 2024 presidential election despite his age becoming an issue of prominent concern among his own Democratic Party members. Also watch | Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption? × Joe Biden’s approval rating stands at 43 per cent in the latest NBC News national poll. This is not enough to translate into a re-election win. However, another 10 per cent of registered voters say they only "somewhat disapprove" of Biden’s performance. And in a hypothetical rematch with Trump, half of those voters say they would support Biden, while 39 per cent say they would back Donald Trump. What is sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes brief interruptions of breathing during sleep which can result in snoring, daytime fatigue and high blood pressure. Due to sleep apnea, throat muscles relax following which the flow of air into the lungs is blocked. If left untreated, it can cause forgetfulness, fatigue and sleepiness, even leading to cardiovascular disease because of the significant strain put on the heart. What is a CPAP machine? A CPAP or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine is a medical device that delivers a continuous flow of pressurised air to the airways, which thereby prevents them from collapsing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Biden uses breathing machine to treat his sleep apnea, White House reveals

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<p>The United States Supreme Court on Tuesday (June 27) rejected the bid to give lawmakers unchecked power over elections. The bid, which was favoured by many conservatives, could hand sweeping power to state legislatures to establish rules for presidential and congressional elections and draft electoral maps giving huge advantages to the political party already in control.</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the justices ruled against Republican state legislators in a case arising from a legal fight over their map of North Carolina's 14 US House of Representative districts. Last year, North Carolina's top court had blocked the map as unlawfully biased against Democratic voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Republican legislators asked the Supreme Court justices to embrace the independent state legislature doctrine that would remove any role of state courts and state constitutions in regulating federal elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The doctrine</strong></h2>

<p>The independent state legislature doctrine is based in part on the US Constitution's statement that the time, place and manner of federal elections shall be prescribed in each state by the legislature thereof.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Elections Clause does not insulate state legislatures from the ordinary exercise of state judicial review," US Chief Justice Roberts wrote of that constitutional provision. Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The criticism of doctrine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Critics of the independent state legislature doctrine, including legal scholars and democrats, called it a threat to American democratic norms. The critics have said that the doctrine's application would let legislatures easily pass further voting restrictions or pursue extreme partisan gerrymandering- which is a practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to marginalize certain voters and increase the influence of others.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>White House welcomes Supreme Court ruling</strong></h2>

<p>The White House on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court ruling by saying the bid would have let politicians undermine the will of the people.</p>

<p>"As you know, this has been an enormous priority for the president and the vice president since the day that they entered office, to strengthen and shore up voting rights in this country. And so we're pleased that the Supreme Court rejected the extreme legal theory presented in this case, which would have interfered with state governments, which would have opened the door for politicians to undermine the will of the people, and would have threatened the freedom of all Americans to have their voices heard at the ballot box," White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States Supreme Court on Tuesday (June 27) rejected the bid to give lawmakers unchecked power over elections. The bid, which was favoured by many conservatives, could hand sweeping power to state legislatures to establish rules for presidential and congressional elections and draft electoral maps giving huge advantages to the political party already in control.

The United States Supreme Court on Tuesday (June 27) rejected the bid to give lawmakers unchecked power over elections. The bid, which was favoured by many conservatives, could hand sweeping power to state legislatures to establish rules for presidential and congressional elections and draft electoral maps giving huge advantages to the political party already in control. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the justices ruled against Republican state legislators in a case arising from a legal fight over their map of North Carolina's 14 US House of Representative districts. Last year, North Carolina's top court had blocked the map as unlawfully biased against Democratic voters. On Tuesday, the Republican legislators asked the Supreme Court justices to embrace the independent state legislature doctrine that would remove any role of state courts and state constitutions in regulating federal elections. The doctrine The independent state legislature doctrine is based in part on the US Constitution's statement that the time, place and manner of federal elections shall be prescribed in each state by the legislature thereof. "The Elections Clause does not insulate state legislatures from the ordinary exercise of state judicial review," US Chief Justice Roberts wrote of that constitutional provision. Reuters reported. The criticism of doctrine Critics of the independent state legislature doctrine, including legal scholars and democrats, called it a threat to American democratic norms. The critics have said that the doctrine's application would let legislatures easily pass further voting restrictions or pursue extreme partisan gerrymandering- which is a practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to marginalize certain voters and increase the influence of others. White House welcomes Supreme Court ruling The White House on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court ruling by saying the bid would have let politicians undermine the will of the people. "As you know, this has been an enormous priority for the president and the vice president since the day that they entered office, to strengthen and shore up voting rights in this country. And so we're pleased that the Supreme Court rejected the extreme legal theory presented in this case, which would have interfered with state governments, which would have opened the door for politicians to undermine the will of the people, and would have threatened the freedom of all Americans to have their voices heard at the ballot box," White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton 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.

US SC rejects bid to give lawmakers unchecked power over polls; White House praises ruling

India's push for digitization has got a twin-turbo boost in the form of Amazon and Google. Both business giants have announced a combined investment of 25 billion dollars in India. The announcements come after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met business leaders in the United States.

PM Modi's US visit a success: Big thumbs up to the India rising story

<p>President Joe Biden has responded to recent inquiries regarding his knowledge of and participation in his son's business affairs. The scrutiny intensified following revelations from an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblower who disclosed a WhatsApp message sent by Hunter Biden.</p>

<p>In the message, Biden's son mentioned being with his father as he discussed a deal with a Chinese associate. Despite the mounting questions, President Biden firmly denied any falsehoods during a press interaction while leaving a high-speed internet infrastructure event at the White House, reported the Daily Mail.</p>

<p>'No,' he told a reporter as he left the event.</p>

<p>Biden consistently asserted that he possessed no awareness of his son's business matters abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Whistleblower's claims and White House statements fuel speculation</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing discussion surrounding Hunter Biden's business affairs took a new turn last week with two significant developments.</p>

<p>Firstly, it was revealed that Hunter, who had been under federal investigation for tax and gun ownership matters, is expected to avoid prison after reaching a plea deal.</p>

<p>Republicans responded by releasing transcripts from IRS whistleblowers who accused the Department of Justice of undermining efforts to impose harsher penalties. The contradicting claims between the whistleblowers and the prosecutor who handled the case have further intensified the focus on the Biden family's activities.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did White House influence Hunter Biden case?</strong></p>

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<p>'As we have said many times before, the president was not in business with his son,' Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson told the Daily Mail.</p>

<h2><strong>Impeachment inquiry looms and whistleblower details emerge</strong></h2>

<p>House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced that an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Merrick Garland will commence by July 6 if the IRS whistleblower claims are substantiated.</p>

<p>The whistleblower, Gary Shapley, highlighted a WhatsApp message from Hunter Biden to a Chinese Communist Party official, where he made demands and referenced his father's presence.</p>

<p>McCarthy insisted that US&nbsp;Attorney David Weiss, who led the investigation into Hunter Biden, must testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The discrepancies between Weiss's statements and Garland's defence have become the central issue driving these inquiries.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden administration defends against allegations and attacks</strong></h2>

<p>Attorney General Garland publicly defended himself, asserting that Weiss had complete authority to make independent decisions regarding the investigation.</p>

<p>Garland criticised those who questioned the integrity of the Justice Department, calling it an attack on an institution vital to American democracy. McCarthy, however, suggested that the House might proceed with impeachment articles, seeking to reconcile the conflicting information provided by Weiss and Garland.</p>

<p>The ongoing revelations, including the contentious WhatsApp message, have sparked renewed interest in Joe Biden's connections to China and foreign payments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-to-plead-guilty-on-two-misdemeanor-charges-on-july-26-607213">Hunter Biden to make court apperance on July 26 to plead guilty on misdemeanor charges</a></p>

<h2><strong>Whistleblower testimonies highlight alleged misconduct</strong></h2>

<p>The House Ways and Means Committee released testimony from IRS whistleblowers, including Shapley, who claimed that the Justice Department, FBI, and IRS interfered with the investigation into Hunter Biden's tax evasion case.</p>

<p>Jason Smith, the committee's Republican chairman, described the allegations as evidence of misconduct and government abuse.</p>

<p>The whistleblowers cited unequal treatment, delays, and denials in enforcing tax law, suggesting Department of Justice interference in protecting Joe Biden's son. These revelations have further fuelled discussions on the Biden family's alleged improprieties.</p>

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President Joe Biden has responded to recent inquiries regarding his knowledge of and participation in his son's business affairs. The scrutiny intensified following revelations from an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblower who disclosed a WhatsApp message sent by Hunter Biden.

President Joe Biden has responded to recent inquiries regarding his knowledge of and participation in his son's business affairs. The scrutiny intensified following revelations from an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblower who disclosed a WhatsApp message sent by Hunter Biden. In the message, Biden's son mentioned being with his father as he discussed a deal with a Chinese associate. Despite the mounting questions, President Biden firmly denied any falsehoods during a press interaction while leaving a high-speed internet infrastructure event at the White House, reported the Daily Mail. 'No,' he told a reporter as he left the event. Biden consistently asserted that he possessed no awareness of his son's business matters abroad. Whistleblower's claims and White House statements fuel speculation The ongoing discussion surrounding Hunter Biden's business affairs took a new turn last week with two significant developments. Firstly, it was revealed that Hunter, who had been under federal investigation for tax and gun ownership matters, is expected to avoid prison after reaching a plea deal. Republicans responded by releasing transcripts from IRS whistleblowers who accused the Department of Justice of undermining efforts to impose harsher penalties. The contradicting claims between the whistleblowers and the prosecutor who handled the case have further intensified the focus on the Biden family's activities. Also watch | Gravitas: Did White House influence Hunter Biden case? 'As we have said many times before, the president was not in business with his son,' Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson told the Daily Mail. Impeachment inquiry looms and whistleblower details emerge House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced that an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Merrick Garland will commence by July 6 if the IRS whistleblower claims are substantiated. The whistleblower, Gary Shapley, highlighted a WhatsApp message from Hunter Biden to a Chinese Communist Party official, where he made demands and referenced his father's presence. McCarthy insisted that US Attorney David Weiss, who led the investigation into Hunter Biden, must testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The discrepancies between Weiss's statements and Garland's defence have become the central issue driving these inquiries. Biden administration defends against allegations and attacks Attorney General Garland publicly defended himself, asserting that Weiss had complete authority to make independent decisions regarding the investigation. Garland criticised those who questioned the integrity of the Justice Department, calling it an attack on an institution vital to American democracy. McCarthy, however, suggested that the House might proceed with impeachment articles, seeking to reconcile the conflicting information provided by Weiss and Garland. The ongoing revelations, including the contentious WhatsApp message, have sparked renewed interest in Joe Biden's connections to China and foreign payments. Also read | Hunter Biden to make court apperance on July 26 to plead guilty on misdemeanor charges Whistleblower testimonies highlight alleged misconduct The House Ways and Means Committee released testimony from IRS whistleblowers, including Shapley, who claimed that the Justice Department, FBI, and IRS interfered with the investigation into Hunter Biden's tax evasion case. Jason Smith, the committee's Republican chairman, described the allegations as evidence of misconduct and government abuse. The whistleblowers cited unequal treatment, delays, and denials in enforcing tax law, suggesting Department of Justice interference in protecting Joe Biden's son. These revelations have further fuelled discussions on the Biden family's alleged improprieties. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden addresses allegations: Denies lying about son's business affairs

Tim Roemer speaks to WION about Indian PM Modi's U.S. State Visit. Roemer opens up about his conversation with PM Modi and lots more.

Gravitas: Ex-US Ambassador to India Tim Roemer speaks to WION | US Edition

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