In what can be the strongest accusation that has come after OPEC+ oil production cut, the White House on Wednesday (October 5) said that the Organisation of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC+) grouping is "aligning with Russia". OPEC+ decided on Wednesday to cut oil production despite US pressure to increase the production. The&nbsp;production cut&nbsp;has&nbsp;the potential to drive up fuel prices in Western nations who are already facing the heat.

"It's clear that OPEC+ is aligning with Russia with today's announcement," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said aboard Air Force One.

The White House has also said that US President Joe Biden was 'disappointed' by&nbsp;the&nbsp;decision to cut production.

The Western bloc, led by the US, has been trying to isolate Russian economy, especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February this year. Through sanctions, the US and the EU have tried to hurt Russia's income through its energy exports.

"Higher oil prices, if driven by sizeable production cuts, would likely irritate the Biden administration ahead of U.S. mid-term elections," Citi analysts said in a note, as quoted by Reuters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-decides-to-reduce-oil-production-despite-us-pressure-522751">OPEC+ decides to reduce oil production despite US pressure</a>

"There could be further political reactions from the U.S., including additional releases of strategic stocks, along with some wildcards including further fostering of a NOPEC bill," Citi said, referring to a US antitrust bill against OPEC.

The OPEC+ decision has already started to show its effect. Benchmark Brent crude rose towards $93 per barrel on Wednesday, after climbing on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what can be the strongest accusation that has come after OPEC+ oil production cut, the White House on Wednesday (October 5) said that the Organisation of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC+) grouping is "aligning with Russia".

In what can be the strongest accusation that has come after OPEC+ oil production cut, the White House on Wednesday (October 5) said that the Organisation of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC+) grouping is "aligning with Russia". OPEC+ decided on Wednesday to cut oil production despite US pressure to increase the production. The production cut has the potential to drive up fuel prices in Western nations who are already facing the heat. "It's clear that OPEC+ is aligning with Russia with today's announcement," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said aboard Air Force One. The White House has also said that US President Joe Biden was 'disappointed' by the decision to cut production. The Western bloc, led by the US, has been trying to isolate Russian economy, especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February this year. Through sanctions, the US and the EU have tried to hurt Russia's income through its energy exports. "Higher oil prices, if driven by sizeable production cuts, would likely irritate the Biden administration ahead of U.S. mid-term elections," Citi analysts said in a note, as quoted by Reuters. Also Read | OPEC+ decides to reduce oil production despite US pressure "There could be further political reactions from the U.S., including additional releases of strategic stocks, along with some wildcards including further fostering of a NOPEC bill," Citi said, referring to a US antitrust bill against OPEC. The OPEC+ decision has already started to show its effect. Benchmark Brent crude rose towards $93 per barrel on Wednesday, after climbing on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

OPEC+ is 'aligning with Russia' by slashing oil production heavily: White House

As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights.

The proposed bill is non-binding and suggests practices that developers and users of AI should voluntarily follow so that technology doesn't unfairly put humans in a disadvantageous position.

Watch |&nbsp;How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future

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It says that all Americans must be protected from unsafe or ineffective systems, discrimination by algorithms, and abusive data collection.

This comes as incidents of algorithms not prioritizing the needs of black patients and those of facial recognition displaying an unfair bias towards darker skin tones came to light.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-doctors-say-new-abortion-laws-have-chilling-impact-on-us-522500" hreflang="en">Joe Biden, doctors say new abortion laws have 'chilling impact' on US</a>

"These technologies are causing real harms in the lives of Americans, harms that run counter to our core democratic values, including the fundamental right to privacy, freedom from discrimination and our basic dignity," said one senior administrator while talking to Reuters.

As per the proposed bill, people are entitled to notice and explanation concerning the AI programs they might encounter.&nbsp;

It also asks companies and other stakeholders including government agencies using AI to conduct significant testing and oversight, and publicise results for stakeholders to understand what a "reasonable starting point is" for taking action on issues, said&nbsp;senior administration officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-sending-625-mn-aid-four-himars-rocket-launchers-to-ukraine-522461" hreflang="en">Biden sending $625 mn aid, four HIMARS rocket launchers to Ukraine</a>

While the proposal is non-binding, the US Chamber of Commerce has warned that if these proposals were to become rules they could hurt businesses.

In a statement, the Chamber's Vice President Jordan Crenshaw said, "There are some recommendations in the AI Blueprint that, if enacted into rules by policymakers, could handcuff America’s ability to compete on the global stage."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights.

As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights. The proposed bill is non-binding and suggests practices that developers and users of AI should voluntarily follow so that technology doesn't unfairly put humans in a disadvantageous position. Watch | How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future It says that all Americans must be protected from unsafe or ineffective systems, discrimination by algorithms, and abusive data collection. This comes as incidents of algorithms not prioritizing the needs of black patients and those of facial recognition displaying an unfair bias towards darker skin tones came to light. Also read | Joe Biden, doctors say new abortion laws have 'chilling impact' on US "These technologies are causing real harms in the lives of Americans, harms that run counter to our core democratic values, including the fundamental right to privacy, freedom from discrimination and our basic dignity," said one senior administrator while talking to Reuters. As per the proposed bill, people are entitled to notice and explanation concerning the AI programs they might encounter. It also asks companies and other stakeholders including government agencies using AI to conduct significant testing and oversight, and publicise results for stakeholders to understand what a "reasonable starting point is" for taking action on issues, said senior administration officials. Also read | Biden sending $625 mn aid, four HIMARS rocket launchers to Ukraine While the proposal is non-binding, the US Chamber of Commerce has warned that if these proposals were to become rules they could hurt businesses. In a statement, the Chamber's Vice President Jordan Crenshaw said, "There are some recommendations in the AI Blueprint that, if enacted into rules by policymakers, could handcuff America’s ability to compete on the global stage." (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.

Biden administration proposes an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights

Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress.

"While there is no easy way to establish absolute accountability, we do know that we do not have custody of everything we should," the acting US archivist, Debra Steidel Wall, said in a letter to Representative Carolyn Maloney, a Democrat who heads the House Oversight Committee.

The letter -- which was dated Friday but made public by US media late Saturday -- did not identify the White House staffers.

But it said that some staffers had used private electronic messaging accounts to conduct official business, and not turned those messages over as required by law.

Wall said in her letter that the National Archives -- which is charged with preserving government records -- would consult with the Justice Department about possible legal action "for the recovery of records unlawfully removed."

Wall's letter, sent in response to a request from Maloney for an update on the legal battle over sensitive materials removed from the White House by Trump, did not say whether the former president had yet turned over all such documents.

She referred Maloney to the Justice Department "in light of its ongoing investigation."

After repeated efforts by the federal government to secure all documents removed by Trump -- and after his lawyers insisted everything had been returned -- a team of FBI agents in August searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and recovered more than 10,000 records, many of them bearing secret or classified markings.

Trump has claimed that many of the documents were private or covered by presidential or attorney-client privilege, and has turned to the courts in an ongoing bid to regain control.

The Justice Department has already taken legal action to secure records from one Trump aide, his former trade advisor Peter Navarro.&nbsp;

Navarro has separately been indicted for refusing to cooperate with a congressional inquiry into the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol.

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Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress.

Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress. "While there is no easy way to establish absolute accountability, we do know that we do not have custody of everything we should," the acting US archivist, Debra Steidel Wall, said in a letter to Representative Carolyn Maloney, a Democrat who heads the House Oversight Committee. The letter -- which was dated Friday but made public by US media late Saturday -- did not identify the White House staffers. But it said that some staffers had used private electronic messaging accounts to conduct official business, and not turned those messages over as required by law. Wall said in her letter that the National Archives -- which is charged with preserving government records -- would consult with the Justice Department about possible legal action "for the recovery of records unlawfully removed." Wall's letter, sent in response to a request from Maloney for an update on the legal battle over sensitive materials removed from the White House by Trump, did not say whether the former president had yet turned over all such documents. She referred Maloney to the Justice Department "in light of its ongoing investigation." After repeated efforts by the federal government to secure all documents removed by Trump -- and after his lawyers insisted everything had been returned -- a team of FBI agents in August searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and recovered more than 10,000 records, many of them bearing secret or classified markings. Trump has claimed that many of the documents were private or covered by presidential or attorney-client privilege, and has turned to the courts in an ongoing bid to regain control. The Justice Department has already taken legal action to secure records from one Trump aide, his former trade advisor Peter Navarro. Navarro has separately been indicted for refusing to cooperate with a congressional inquiry into the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol. 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 ×

Trump White House staffers still keeping documents: US Archives

Priyanka Chopra visited the White House on Friday to speak to US Vice President Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Committee Women's Leadership Forum. Donning a yellow backless dress along with&nbsp;matching heels, Priyanka interviewed&nbsp;the US Vice President and asked some important questions about pay parity, gun laws in the US and a lot more.

During the candid conversation, Priyanka also shared that in her career of over 22 years, she received the same pay cheque as her male co-actor for the very first time this year.

The 'Quantico' actress shared glimpses of her White House visit on her Instagram Stories. She shared a picture of the Washington Monument, a glimpse inside the White House and a beverage she had, which had the presidential seal on it.

Meanwhile, Nick Jonas was at his NYC home taking care of his&nbsp;daughter Malti. He shared a picture on his social media handle and captioned it, “Daddy daughter adventures in NYC.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“The White House”— via <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankachopra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankachopra</a> instagram story <a href="https://t.co/iwY6RxKaik">pic.twitter.com/iwY6RxKaik</a>
— PRIYANKA DAILY (@PriyankaDailyFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/PriyankaDailyFC/status/1575864928199925760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-guillermo-del-toros-cabinet-of-curiosities-trailer-oscar-winning-director-unveils-spooky-anthology-series-521474" hreflang="en">'Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities' trailer: Oscar-winning director unveils spooky anthology series</a>

On the professional front,&nbsp;Priyanka is all set to make her OTT debut with Prime Video's 'Citadel', produced by the Russo Brothers. She also has 'Ending Things' and 'It's All Coming Back To Me' in the pipeline.

As Alia&nbsp;Bhatt once confirmed in an interview, she will be soon start filming for&nbsp;Farhan Akhtar's 'Jee Le Zaraa' with Katrina Kaif and Alia.

Priyanka Chopra visited the White House on Friday to speak to US Vice President Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Committee Women's Leadership Forum. Donning a yellow backless dress along with matching heels, Priyanka interviewed the US Vice President and asked some important questions about pay parity, gun laws in the US and a lot more.

Priyanka Chopra visited the White House on Friday to speak to US Vice President Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Committee Women's Leadership Forum. Donning a yellow backless dress along with matching heels, Priyanka interviewed the US Vice President and asked some important questions about pay parity, gun laws in the US and a lot more. During the candid conversation, Priyanka also shared that in her career of over 22 years, she received the same pay cheque as her male co-actor for the very first time this year. The 'Quantico' actress shared glimpses of her White House visit on her Instagram Stories. She shared a picture of the Washington Monument, a glimpse inside the White House and a beverage she had, which had the presidential seal on it. Meanwhile, Nick Jonas was at his NYC home taking care of his daughter Malti. He shared a picture on his social media handle and captioned it, “Daddy daughter adventures in NYC.” “The White House”— via @priyankachopra instagram story pic.twitter.com/iwY6RxKaik — PRIYANKA DAILY (@PriyankaDailyFC) September 30, 2022 Also read: 'Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities' trailer: Oscar-winning director unveils spooky anthology series On the professional front, Priyanka is all set to make her OTT debut with Prime Video's 'Citadel', produced by the Russo Brothers. She also has 'Ending Things' and 'It's All Coming Back To Me' in the pipeline. As Alia Bhatt once confirmed in an interview, she will be soon start filming for Farhan Akhtar's 'Jee Le Zaraa' with Katrina Kaif and Alia.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas interviews US Vice President Kamala Harris at White House

During a White House conference, US President Joe Biden called for an Indiana Congresswoman who died recently in a car accident, seeming to address her as if she was alive.

This moment of memory lapse left the reporters present at the event stunned even as Biden kept on asking, “Jackie are you here? Where's Jackie?"

The event was on ‘Hunger, Nutrition, and Health’, where the Biden administration pledged $8 billion in an effort to end hunger and decrease diet-related diseases by 2030.

At the end of the Thursday event, Biden was thanking the lawmakers involved in the issue when he mentioned&nbsp;late Jackie Walorski.

"I want to thank all of you here, including bipartisan, elected officials like representative of government Sen. Braun, Sen. Booker, Representative Jackie, are you here? Where's Jackie?”

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"Jackie, where's Jackie?," Joe Biden says about Rep. Jackie Walorski who died in a car accident a few months ago. <a href="https://t.co/khdiesmEsx">pic.twitter.com/khdiesmEsx</a>
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But it seems that he remembered it mid-way that Walroski died. “I think…she was gonna be here to help make this a reality."

And as expected, later White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was bombarded with questions on Biden's misstep during the event.

Biden was “acknowledging her incredible work,” Jean-Pierre said, adding that the US leader had already planned to welcome the congresswoman's family to the White House for a bill signing on Friday, reports AP news agency.

“She was on top of mind,” she added.

Walorski and two of her aides were killed in a car crash on August 3.&nbsp;She began serving in Congress in 2013. Before her death, the Congresswoman was the&nbsp;co-chair&nbsp;of the House Hunger Caucus. She worked with Senators Cory Booker, Mike Braun and Jim McGovern to pass the bill to convene the White House Conference on hunger — the first in 50 years.

Notably, Biden had expressed grief upon her death, saying that both he and first lady Jill Biden were “shocked and saddened” by her passing. The White House also flew flags at half-staff in her honour.

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During a White House conference, US President Joe Biden called for an Indiana Congresswoman who died recently in a car accident, seeming to address her as if she was alive.

During a White House conference, US President Joe Biden called for an Indiana Congresswoman who died recently in a car accident, seeming to address her as if she was alive. This moment of memory lapse left the reporters present at the event stunned even as Biden kept on asking, “Jackie are you here? Where's Jackie?" The event was on ‘Hunger, Nutrition, and Health’, where the Biden administration pledged $8 billion in an effort to end hunger and decrease diet-related diseases by 2030. At the end of the Thursday event, Biden was thanking the lawmakers involved in the issue when he mentioned late Jackie Walorski. "I want to thank all of you here, including bipartisan, elected officials like representative of government Sen. Braun, Sen. Booker, Representative Jackie, are you here? Where's Jackie?” "Jackie, where's Jackie?," Joe Biden says about Rep. Jackie Walorski who died in a car accident a few months ago. pic.twitter.com/khdiesmEsx — Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 28, 2022 × But it seems that he remembered it mid-way that Walroski died. “I think…she was gonna be here to help make this a reality." And as expected, later White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was bombarded with questions on Biden's misstep during the event. Biden was “acknowledging her incredible work,” Jean-Pierre said, adding that the US leader had already planned to welcome the congresswoman's family to the White House for a bill signing on Friday, reports AP news agency. “She was on top of mind,” she added. Walorski and two of her aides were killed in a car crash on August 3. She began serving in Congress in 2013. Before her death, the Congresswoman was the co-chair of the House Hunger Caucus. She worked with Senators Cory Booker, Mike Braun and Jim McGovern to pass the bill to convene the White House Conference on hunger — the first in 50 years. Notably, Biden had expressed grief upon her death, saying that both he and first lady Jill Biden were “shocked and saddened” by her passing. The White House also flew flags at half-staff in her honour. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Where’s Jackie?’: Biden’s memory lapse leaves netizens stunned as he calls for dead Congresswoman

The&nbsp;White&nbsp;House&nbsp;announced Wednesday billions of&nbsp;dollars&nbsp;in pledges from major corporations -- including the likes of fast food behemoth Burger King -- to craft a national strategy on ending the twin US challenges of&nbsp;hunger&nbsp;and&nbsp;obesity.

The private sector pledges were unveiled as President Joe Biden hosted what the administration touted as the first big White House summit on food and diet since Richard Nixon was in office more than half a century ago.

Nearly 42 per cent of American adults are technically&nbsp;obese&nbsp;and about 10 per cent of US households suffer food insecurity, according to the latest government statistics.

Biden told the&nbsp;White&nbsp;House&nbsp;Conference on&nbsp;Hunger, Nutrition, and Health that government, Congress, private companies and society must work together to end&nbsp;hunger&nbsp;and reduce diet-related diseases in the United States by 2030.

"If you can’t feed your child, what the hell else matters?" he asked the audience of Congress members, activists, health experts and food industry representatives including top chef and humanitarian Jose Andres. "In America, no child should go to bed hungry. No parent should die of disease that can be prevented."

Because Congress is unlikely to fund major federal dietary programs, Biden finds his hands largely tied. However, officials said he was using the power of the presidency to get major companies involved and that the response has been strong.

"We know that we can only achieve the goals... if we rally a whole of society response," a senior official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Officials briefing reporters said that $8 billion in public and private sector commitments already made include pledges from more than 100 organizations, ranging from hospitals to tech companies and food industry players.

"All have committed to bold and in some cases, paradigm shifting commitments that will meaningfully improve nutrition, promote physical activity, and reduce&nbsp;hunger&nbsp;and diet related disease over the next seven years," an official said.

What's 'healthy'?

The&nbsp;White&nbsp;House&nbsp;says that poor diets are behind ever-rising cases of diseases like type 2 diabetes,&nbsp;obesity, hypertension, and certain cancers, warning that "there is no silver bullet to address these complex issues, and there is no overnight fix."

One idea being pushed by the administration is to regulate the use of the term "healthy" on food packaging.

"More than 80 percent of people in the US aren’t eating enough vegetables, fruit and dairy. And most people consume too much added sugars, saturated fat and sodium," the US Food and Drug Administration said.

For now, the quickest response is coming from the private sector.

S2G investments, which champions "a more humane and healthy planet," and food industry innovation specialists&nbsp;Food Systems for the Future are set to launch a $2.5 billion private investor coalition over the next three years.

The National Restaurant Association will expand a project aimed at getting children to eat healthier food at 45,000 more outlets, including at chains like Burger King.

IT and communications giant Cisco will contribute $500 million over five years for healthier meals and food production in areas where it does business.

Officials acknowledged that there is no enforcement mechanism for the spending programs but "we will continue to certainly work closely with these partners to ensure they execute on the actions committed to."

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The White House announced Wednesday billions of dollars in pledges from major corporations -- including the likes of fast food behemoth Burger King -- to craft a national strategy on ending the twin US challenges of hunger and obesity.

The White House announced Wednesday billions of dollars in pledges from major corporations -- including the likes of fast food behemoth Burger King -- to craft a national strategy on ending the twin US challenges of hunger and obesity. The private sector pledges were unveiled as President Joe Biden hosted what the administration touted as the first big White House summit on food and diet since Richard Nixon was in office more than half a century ago. Nearly 42 per cent of American adults are technically obese and about 10 per cent of US households suffer food insecurity, according to the latest government statistics. Biden told the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health that government, Congress, private companies and society must work together to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases in the United States by 2030. "If you can’t feed your child, what the hell else matters?" he asked the audience of Congress members, activists, health experts and food industry representatives including top chef and humanitarian Jose Andres. "In America, no child should go to bed hungry. No parent should die of disease that can be prevented." Because Congress is unlikely to fund major federal dietary programs, Biden finds his hands largely tied. However, officials said he was using the power of the presidency to get major companies involved and that the response has been strong. "We know that we can only achieve the goals... if we rally a whole of society response," a senior official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Officials briefing reporters said that $8 billion in public and private sector commitments already made include pledges from more than 100 organizations, ranging from hospitals to tech companies and food industry players. "All have committed to bold and in some cases, paradigm shifting commitments that will meaningfully improve nutrition, promote physical activity, and reduce hunger and diet related disease over the next seven years," an official said. What's 'healthy'? The White House says that poor diets are behind ever-rising cases of diseases like type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and certain cancers, warning that "there is no silver bullet to address these complex issues, and there is no overnight fix." One idea being pushed by the administration is to regulate the use of the term "healthy" on food packaging. "More than 80 percent of people in the US aren’t eating enough vegetables, fruit and dairy. And most people consume too much added sugars, saturated fat and sodium," the US Food and Drug Administration said. For now, the quickest response is coming from the private sector. S2G investments, which champions "a more humane and healthy planet," and food industry innovation specialists Food Systems for the Future are set to launch a $2.5 billion private investor coalition over the next three years. The National Restaurant Association will expand a project aimed at getting children to eat healthier food at 45,000 more outlets, including at chains like Burger King. IT and communications giant Cisco will contribute $500 million over five years for healthier meals and food production in areas where it does business. Officials acknowledged that there is no enforcement mechanism for the spending programs but "we will continue to certainly work closely with these partners to ensure they execute on the actions committed to." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House announces multi-billion dollar plan to attack obesity, hunger

President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and about 2,000 fans on Friday basked in a performance at the White House by musical legend and activist&nbsp;Elton&nbsp;John, who is on a lengthy farewell tour in the United States.

The British superstar performed hit songs such as 'Rocketman,'&nbsp;'Your Song'&nbsp;and 'Tiny Dancer'&nbsp;from the South Lawn, singing and playing piano in an open-air structure set up for the performance, which at one point moved Biden to tears.

"Like so many Americans, our family loves his music," Biden said when introducing the singer. "It's clear&nbsp;Elton&nbsp;John's music has changed our lives."

John, who declined to play for former President Donald Trump's inauguration, agreed to perform for the Bidens as one of a handful of mainstream celebrities who are returning to the White House after years of avoiding it.

His performance was part of a celebration to honour people the White House called everyday heroes: nurses, emergency and mental health workers, teachers, LGBTQ+ advocates and activists.

John&nbsp;said playing at the White House was "icing on the cake" after a career of performing in beautiful venues. In between songs, he spoke of his fight against HIV/AIDS and praised former President George W. Bush, a Republican, for his efforts to combat AIDS in Africa through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme.

Former first lady Laura Bush was one of the guests at the performance.

John&nbsp;noted that the fight against AIDS in the United States had support from Republicans and Democrats.

"I just wish America could be more bipartisan," he said.

At the end of the evening, Biden moved&nbsp;John&nbsp;to tears by surprising him with the National Humanities Medal.

"I'm flabbergasted,"&nbsp;John&nbsp;said. "I will treasure this."

The performance was paid for by A&amp;E Networks and The History Channel, which is part of A&amp;E, and will air at a later date. A&amp;E Networks is a joint venture of Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst.

The performance was called "A Night When Hope and History Rhyme," drawn from a poem by Irish writer Seamus Heaney. Biden regularly quotes Heaney and is an aficionado of Irish sayings and poetry.

Biden has a special relationship with&nbsp;John's music. He wrote in his 2017 memoir "Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship and Purpose" about singing "Crocodile Rock" to his son Beau as a child and again as an adult when Beau was dying from cancer.

John&nbsp;included that song in his playlist on Friday.

President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and about 2,000 fans on Friday basked in a performance at the White House by musical legend and activist Elton John, who is on a lengthy farewell tour in the United States.

President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and about 2,000 fans on Friday basked in a performance at the White House by musical legend and activist Elton John, who is on a lengthy farewell tour in the United States. The British superstar performed hit songs such as 'Rocketman,' 'Your Song' and 'Tiny Dancer' from the South Lawn, singing and playing piano in an open-air structure set up for the performance, which at one point moved Biden to tears. "Like so many Americans, our family loves his music," Biden said when introducing the singer. "It's clear Elton John's music has changed our lives." John, who declined to play for former President Donald Trump's inauguration, agreed to perform for the Bidens as one of a handful of mainstream celebrities who are returning to the White House after years of avoiding it. His performance was part of a celebration to honour people the White House called everyday heroes: nurses, emergency and mental health workers, teachers, LGBTQ+ advocates and activists. John said playing at the White House was "icing on the cake" after a career of performing in beautiful venues. In between songs, he spoke of his fight against HIV/AIDS and praised former President George W. Bush, a Republican, for his efforts to combat AIDS in Africa through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme. Former first lady Laura Bush was one of the guests at the performance. John noted that the fight against AIDS in the United States had support from Republicans and Democrats. "I just wish America could be more bipartisan," he said. At the end of the evening, Biden moved John to tears by surprising him with the National Humanities Medal. "I'm flabbergasted," John said. "I will treasure this." The performance was paid for by A&E Networks and The History Channel, which is part of A&E, and will air at a later date. A&E Networks is a joint venture of Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst. The performance was called "A Night When Hope and History Rhyme," drawn from a poem by Irish writer Seamus Heaney. Biden regularly quotes Heaney and is an aficionado of Irish sayings and poetry. Biden has a special relationship with John's music. He wrote in his 2017 memoir "Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship and Purpose" about singing "Crocodile Rock" to his son Beau as a child and again as an adult when Beau was dying from cancer. John included that song in his playlist on Friday.

Rocketman at the White House: Bidens host Elton John for South Lawn soiree

Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media.

"We have never exported weapons or ammunition to Russia before and we will not plan to export them," an official at the defence ministry's General Bureau of Equipment said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;

The declaration follows the White House's previous September claim that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-cornered-putin-is-more-dangerous-than-ever-518530">Russia</a> was acquiring rockets and artillery from communist North Korea to help its conflict in Ukraine.

According to John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, American acquisitions "may encompass literally millions of rounds, rockets, and artillery shells."

He emphasised at the time that the acquisitions had not yet been made and that there was no proof the weapons were being utilised in Ukraine, citing declassified US intelligence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskiy-at-unga-we-demand-just-punishment-for-russian-crimes-518559">Zelenskiy at UNGA: We demand 'just punishment' for Russian crimes</a>

Using the official abbreviation for North <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/korean-cinematic-rise-years-in-the-making-says-squid-game-star-lee-jung-jae-517046">Korea</a>, Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, lashed out at the United States in the statement, claiming that it and "other hostile forces" were "spreading a 'rumour of arms deals' between the DPRK and Russia."

We warn the US to stop making reckless remarks," it said, while emphasising North Korea maintains the right to export military equipment.&nbsp;

The purchase of artillery ammunition from the isolated North Korean government and an agreement to purchase military drones from Iran, according to the White House, demonstrated Russia's dire financial situation following months of Western economic and technological sanctions intended to stymie its war machine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media.

Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media. "We have never exported weapons or ammunition to Russia before and we will not plan to export them," an official at the defence ministry's General Bureau of Equipment said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The declaration follows the White House's previous September claim that Russia was acquiring rockets and artillery from communist North Korea to help its conflict in Ukraine. According to John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, American acquisitions "may encompass literally millions of rounds, rockets, and artillery shells." He emphasised at the time that the acquisitions had not yet been made and that there was no proof the weapons were being utilised in Ukraine, citing declassified US intelligence. Also read | Zelenskiy at UNGA: We demand 'just punishment' for Russian crimes Using the official abbreviation for North Korea, Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, lashed out at the United States in the statement, claiming that it and "other hostile forces" were "spreading a 'rumour of arms deals' between the DPRK and Russia." We warn the US to stop making reckless remarks," it said, while emphasising North Korea maintains the right to export military equipment. The purchase of artillery ammunition from the isolated North Korean government and an agreement to purchase military drones from Iran, according to the White House, demonstrated Russia's dire financial situation following months of Western economic and technological sanctions intended to stymie its war machine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea denies exporting weapons to Russia

The White House said on Saturday that US President Joe Biden will hold a bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Liz Truss next week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

According to the White House press office, "The President will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Truss on Wednesday in New York when both are attending UNGA."

Previously, Truss had planned to meet Biden during his trip to the United Kingdom for Queen Elizabeth II's funeral but it was postponed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-live-updates-515646" hreflang="en">LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral updates | Biden en route to London to attend the funeral</a>

Following Biden’s public insistence that Brexit proceedings avoid enacting new barriers at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, there were reports that the White House had been noncommittal about his meeting with Truss.

While Biden regularly derides the trickle-down economic philosophies of the era of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Truss is admired by American conservatives and has positioned herself in the mould of the iron lady.

After going through a range of leaders and their personalities, the US and the UK maintain the so-called special relationship.

Britain's longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II had met 13 of the last 14 American presidents with the exception of Lyndon Johnson.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House said on Saturday that US President Joe Biden will hold a bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Liz Truss next week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The White House said on Saturday that US President Joe Biden will hold a bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Liz Truss next week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. According to the White House press office, "The President will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Truss on Wednesday in New York when both are attending UNGA." Previously, Truss had planned to meet Biden during his trip to the United Kingdom for Queen Elizabeth II's funeral but it was postponed. Also read | LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral updates | Biden en route to London to attend the funeral Following Biden’s public insistence that Brexit proceedings avoid enacting new barriers at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, there were reports that the White House had been noncommittal about his meeting with Truss. While Biden regularly derides the trickle-down economic philosophies of the era of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Truss is admired by American conservatives and has positioned herself in the mould of the iron lady. After going through a range of leaders and their personalities, the US and the UK maintain the so-called special relationship. Britain's longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II had met 13 of the last 14 American presidents with the exception of Lyndon Johnson. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

White House says Biden will hold bilateral meeting with Truss next week at UN

Calling the death of a young Iranian woman after her arrest by the morality police in Tehran "unforgivable," the White House condemned the incident.

According to Iran's state media, authorities launched probes into the death of Mahsa Amini following a demand by President Ebrahim Raisi.

The 22-year-old was detained by morality police enforcing Iran's strict hijab rules although she was ill.

Rejecting allegations on social media that Amini was likely beaten, the local police said "Based on detailed investigations, since her transfer to the vehicle and also at the location (station), there was no physical encounter with her."

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We are deeply concerned by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was reportedly beaten in custody by Iran’s morality police. Her death is unforgivable. We will continue to hold Iranian officials accountable for such human right abuses. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahsaAmini?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahsaAmini</a> مهسا_امینی#
— Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeSullivan46/status/1570880176590032896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After getting up from her seat to speak to an official at a police station, Amini fell over as per the closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage carried by state TV.

Amini was being taken to the station to be "convinced and educated" when she suffered a heart attack, according to the police.

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Mahsa Amini’s death after injuries sustained in custody for an “improper” hijab is appalling. Our thoughts are with her family. Iran must end its violence against women for exercising their fundamental rights. Those responsible for her death should be held accountable <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%85%D9%87%D8%B3%D8%A7_%D8%A7%D9%85%DB%8C%D9%86%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#مهسا_امینی</a>
— Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley (@USEnvoyIran) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEnvoyIran/status/1570826454182797312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Denying that she suffered any heart condition, her relatives demanded justice and slammed the heavy-handed action by morality police units against women who had removed their hijab.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-use-surveillance-technology-to-enforce-new-hijab-law-513075">Also read |&nbsp;Iran plans to use surveillance technology to enforce new hijab law</a>

The incident has triggered protests by Iranians on social media and on the streets and outspoken reformist politician Mahmoud Sadeghi called on Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Twitter to speak out about the case.

Following the revolution in 1979, women are obliged to cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothes to disguise their figures under Iran's sharia (Islamic) law.

With many women of all ages and backgrounds wearing tight-fitting clothes, the country's hardline rulers are cracking down harder on what they call "immoral behaviour". 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Calling the death of a young Iranian woman after her arrest by the morality police in Tehran "unforgivable," the White House condemned the incident. According to Iran's state media, authorities launched probes into the death of Mahsa Amini following a demand by President Ebrahim Raisi.

Calling the death of a young Iranian woman after her arrest by the morality police in Tehran "unforgivable," the White House condemned the incident. According to Iran's state media, authorities launched probes into the death of Mahsa Amini following a demand by President Ebrahim Raisi. The 22-year-old was detained by morality police enforcing Iran's strict hijab rules although she was ill. Rejecting allegations on social media that Amini was likely beaten, the local police said "Based on detailed investigations, since her transfer to the vehicle and also at the location (station), there was no physical encounter with her." We are deeply concerned by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was reportedly beaten in custody by Iran’s morality police. Her death is unforgivable. We will continue to hold Iranian officials accountable for such human right abuses. #MahsaAmini مهسا_امینی# — Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) September 16, 2022 × After getting up from her seat to speak to an official at a police station, Amini fell over as per the closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage carried by state TV. Amini was being taken to the station to be "convinced and educated" when she suffered a heart attack, according to the police. Mahsa Amini’s death after injuries sustained in custody for an “improper” hijab is appalling. Our thoughts are with her family. Iran must end its violence against women for exercising their fundamental rights. Those responsible for her death should be held accountable #مهسا_امینی — Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley (@USEnvoyIran) September 16, 2022 × Denying that she suffered any heart condition, her relatives demanded justice and slammed the heavy-handed action by morality police units against women who had removed their hijab. Also read | Iran plans to use surveillance technology to enforce new hijab law The incident has triggered protests by Iranians on social media and on the streets and outspoken reformist politician Mahmoud Sadeghi called on Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Twitter to speak out about the case. Following the revolution in 1979, women are obliged to cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothes to disguise their figures under Iran's sharia (Islamic) law. With many women of all ages and backgrounds wearing tight-fitting clothes, the country's hardline rulers are cracking down harder on what they call "immoral behaviour". (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Death of Iranian woman after arrest by moral police 'unforgivable': White House

A new group of migrants, bused in from Texas, arrived in Washington DC on Thursday morning. They were left stranded next to the US Naval Observatory, the home to Vice President Kamala Harris.

Republicans are playing up immigration issues before November midterm elections as&nbsp;Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took credit Thursday for sending two planeloads of undocumented Venezuelans from&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;to wealthy Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.&nbsp;

This is part of a&nbsp;of a five-month-old&nbsp;operation started by&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;Republican Governor Greg Abbott. The aim was to put pressure Democrats on the immigration issue.&nbsp;

In response, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Republican governors are using migrants as "political pawns". News agencies reported that around 50 of the migrants, including children, landed Wednesday on the island.&nbsp;

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took credit of sending two planeloads of undocumented Venezuelans from Texas to wealthy Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp; | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-appoints-special-master-in-donald-trump-document-case-516648">US judge appoints 'special master' in Donald Trump document case</a>&nbsp;

On being asked about the decision by the Florida governor to fly migrants to Martha's Vineyard, Jean-Pierre said the move was a "premeditated political stunt."&nbsp;

"There's a process in place. We have had a process in place. There's a legal way of doing this and for managing migrants. Republican governors interfering in that process and using migrants as political pawns is shameful, is reckless and just plain wrong," Jean-Pierre said.&nbsp;

According to state data obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, Texas has bused more than 7,000 migrants to Washington, DC and New York City since April, spending nearly $13 million on the initiative through August 8.&nbsp;

A local state legislator said Dylan Fernandes, "Immigrants are being dropped off on Martha's Vineyard by chartered flights from Texas. Many don't know where they are. They say they were told they would be given housing and jobs."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden weighed in and slammed the moves as Republicans "playing politics with human beings."&nbsp;

"What they're doing is simply wrong. It's un-American. It's reckless,"&nbsp;said Biden at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus event Thursday evening.&nbsp;

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A new group of migrants, bused in from Texas, arrived in Washington DC on Thursday morning. They were left stranded next to the US Naval Observatory, the home to Vice President Kamala Harris.

A new group of migrants, bused in from Texas, arrived in Washington DC on Thursday morning. They were left stranded next to the US Naval Observatory, the home to Vice President Kamala Harris. Republicans are playing up immigration issues before November midterm elections as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took credit Thursday for sending two planeloads of undocumented Venezuelans from Texas to wealthy Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. This is part of a of a five-month-old operation started by Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott. The aim was to put pressure Democrats on the immigration issue. In response, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Republican governors are using migrants as "political pawns". News agencies reported that around 50 of the migrants, including children, landed Wednesday on the island. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took credit of sending two planeloads of undocumented Venezuelans from Texas to wealthy Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. ALSO READ | US judge appoints 'special master' in Donald Trump document case On being asked about the decision by the Florida governor to fly migrants to Martha's Vineyard, Jean-Pierre said the move was a "premeditated political stunt." "There's a process in place. We have had a process in place. There's a legal way of doing this and for managing migrants. Republican governors interfering in that process and using migrants as political pawns is shameful, is reckless and just plain wrong," Jean-Pierre said. According to state data obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, Texas has bused more than 7,000 migrants to Washington, DC and New York City since April, spending nearly $13 million on the initiative through August 8. A local state legislator said Dylan Fernandes, "Immigrants are being dropped off on Martha's Vineyard by chartered flights from Texas. Many don't know where they are. They say they were told they would be given housing and jobs." Meanwhile, President Joe Biden weighed in and slammed the moves as Republicans "playing politics with human beings." "What they're doing is simply wrong. It's un-American. It's reckless," said Biden at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus event Thursday evening. 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.

'It's un-American. It's reckless': White House says Republicans using migrants as 'political pawns'

The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia.

More than a month after his administration announced it had proposed a deal for their return to Moscow, Biden will host separate meetings on Friday with Griner's wife and Whelan's sister.

Amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release, the separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families.

According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, "We would love to be saying today that we have news about Brittney and Paul coming home today. Unfortunately, that is not where the negotiations are at this time."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-us-in-talks-over-merchant-of-death-for-basketballer-brittny-griner-moscow-506538">Also read |&nbsp;Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow</a>

Experts believe that there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent despite plans for the White House meetings.

Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) star Griner has been held in Russia since February on drug-related charges and was sentenced to nine years in prison last month after pleading guilty and has appealed the punishment.

After being convicted of spying in Russia, Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in jail even though his family called the espionage-related charges false.

Placing their cases with the office of its top hostage negotiator, the US government regards both as wrongfully detained.

Underscoring the administration’s commitment to bring them home, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in late July that Washington had made a "substantial offer" to Moscow to secure the return of the two Americans.

There have been few public developments on the issue over the past weeks although Russia's foreign ministry said last month it was engaged in "quiet diplomacy" about a potential prisoner swap.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, negotiations are taking place amid ruptured relations between Washington and Moscow.

Saying such efforts could complicate official talks for their release, the State Department on Wednesday warned against private efforts to try to secure Griner and Whelan's release after former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson travelled to Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia.

The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia. More than a month after his administration announced it had proposed a deal for their return to Moscow, Biden will host separate meetings on Friday with Griner's wife and Whelan's sister. Amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release, the separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families. According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, "We would love to be saying today that we have news about Brittney and Paul coming home today. Unfortunately, that is not where the negotiations are at this time." Also read | Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow Experts believe that there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent despite plans for the White House meetings. Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) star Griner has been held in Russia since February on drug-related charges and was sentenced to nine years in prison last month after pleading guilty and has appealed the punishment. After being convicted of spying in Russia, Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in jail even though his family called the espionage-related charges false. Placing their cases with the office of its top hostage negotiator, the US government regards both as wrongfully detained. Underscoring the administration’s commitment to bring them home, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in late July that Washington had made a "substantial offer" to Moscow to secure the return of the two Americans. There have been few public developments on the issue over the past weeks although Russia's foreign ministry said last month it was engaged in "quiet diplomacy" about a potential prisoner swap. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, negotiations are taking place amid ruptured relations between Washington and Moscow. Saying such efforts could complicate official talks for their release, the State Department on Wednesday warned against private efforts to try to secure Griner and Whelan's release after former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson travelled to Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

White House says Biden to meet with relatives of two Americans jailed in Russia

On Tuesday (September 13), Lindsey Graham, a well-known Republican senator, unveiled a bill that would outlaw abortion after 15 weeks in all 50 US states.&nbsp;

The bill has been heavily criticised by the White House and lawmakers and has very little chance of passing in the Democratic-held Senate.

White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre, referring to the bill, said it "strip away women's rights in all 50 states" and will be "wildly out of step with what Americans believe," AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-race-political-clock-cross-state-lines-for-abortions-511410">Also read |&nbsp;Women race political clock, cross state lines for abortions</a>

Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker, warned, "if Republicans get the chance, they will work to pass laws even more draconian than this bill -- just like the bans they have enacted in states like Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma."

Abortion has been an eventful debate topic ever since the US Supreme Court scrapped&nbsp;the constitutional right to the procedure in June this year, leaving it up to individual states to decide whether to permit it or not.&nbsp;

A country-wide ban would be imposed on abortion after 15 weeks would be imposed as per Graham's proposed bill, with the exception of rape, incest, and situations when the mother's life is in danger.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-pregnancy-complications-amid-abortion-row-in-the-us-509316">Also read |&nbsp;Explained: Pregnancy complications amid abortion row in the US</a>

Graham's bill would maintain severe limitations on abortion put in place in around a dozen conservative states since the court's ruling. The senator said that such a law would "get America to a federal level that is fairly consistent with the rest of the world," AFP reported.

However, this bill would impose restrictions on abortion in a handful of states where the procedure is already legal after 15 weeks.

Ahead of the November mid-term elections, abortion rights have gained attention, and Graham's move is an effort to find common ground and calm any backlash against the Republican Party.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Tuesday (September 13), Lindsey Graham, a well-known Republican senator, unveiled a bill that would outlaw abortion after 15 weeks in all 50 US states. The bill has been heavily criticised by the White House and lawmakers and has very little chance of passing in the Democratic-held Senate.

On Tuesday (September 13), Lindsey Graham, a well-known Republican senator, unveiled a bill that would outlaw abortion after 15 weeks in all 50 US states. The bill has been heavily criticised by the White House and lawmakers and has very little chance of passing in the Democratic-held Senate. White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre, referring to the bill, said it "strip away women's rights in all 50 states" and will be "wildly out of step with what Americans believe," AFP reported. Also read | Women race political clock, cross state lines for abortions Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker, warned, "if Republicans get the chance, they will work to pass laws even more draconian than this bill -- just like the bans they have enacted in states like Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma." Abortion has been an eventful debate topic ever since the US Supreme Court scrapped the constitutional right to the procedure in June this year, leaving it up to individual states to decide whether to permit it or not. A country-wide ban would be imposed on abortion after 15 weeks would be imposed as per Graham's proposed bill, with the exception of rape, incest, and situations when the mother's life is in danger. Also read | Explained: Pregnancy complications amid abortion row in the US Graham's bill would maintain severe limitations on abortion put in place in around a dozen conservative states since the court's ruling. The senator said that such a law would "get America to a federal level that is fairly consistent with the rest of the world," AFP reported. However, this bill would impose restrictions on abortion in a handful of states where the procedure is already legal after 15 weeks. Ahead of the November mid-term elections, abortion rights have gained attention, and Graham's move is an effort to find common ground and calm any backlash against the Republican Party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Senator Lindsey Graham proposes national 15-week abortion ban; White House criticises 

If reports are to be believed former President Donald Trump after losing the 2021 elections vowed that he won't leave the White House.

As per a CNN report, a New York Times reporter in her forthcoming book has made this revelation.

The reporter Maggie Haberman, in her book, "Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America," revealed that Trump repeatedly told his aides that he would not let incoming President Joe Biden take over and that he's "just not going to leave".

Watch |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump brands President Biden 'Enemy of the state'

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He reportedly said to one aide: "We're never leaving" adding "How can you leave when you won an election?".

The elections, result announcement, Trump's loss and the eventual January 6 attack on Capitol Hills mark a chaotic shift of power from the businessman to current President Joe Biden.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-what-moving-out-of-majestic-white-house-looks-like-514091">In pics: What moving out of majestic white house looks like?</a>

His insistence against vacating the White House is a new detail and as CNN puts it, "adds new detail to the chaotic post-election period".

In the early aftermath of the results, according to Haberman, who has been covering Trump since his win in 2016, the outgoing president appeared to acknowledge that he had lost to Biden. He even consoled one aide by stating, "We did our best."

However, something caused his mood to shift, and he abruptly told staff members he had no plans to leave the White House for Biden to move in.

Trump also reportedly said to Ronna McDaniel, the chair of the Republican National Committee, "Why should I leave if they stole it from me?"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-still-not-have-returned-all-classified-documents-say-us-prosecutors-514377">Donald Trump may still not have returned all classified documents, say US prosecutors</a>

The disclosures from the book come as US House and Justice Department investigators are looking into Trump's refusal to relinquish power after the 2020 election.&nbsp;

Federal investigators have recently delivered subpoenas to a number of former Trump advisers, and the House select committee looking into January 6 is considering additional hearings and a final report this fall.

(With inputs from agencies)

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If reports are to be believed former President Donald Trump after losing the 2021 elections vowed that he won't leave the White House. As per a CNN report, a New York Times reporter in her forthcoming book has made this revelation.

If reports are to be believed former President Donald Trump after losing the 2021 elections vowed that he won't leave the White House. As per a CNN report, a New York Times reporter in her forthcoming book has made this revelation. The reporter Maggie Haberman, in her book, "Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America," revealed that Trump repeatedly told his aides that he would not let incoming President Joe Biden take over and that he's "just not going to leave". Watch | Former US President Donald Trump brands President Biden 'Enemy of the state' He reportedly said to one aide: "We're never leaving" adding "How can you leave when you won an election?". The elections, result announcement, Trump's loss and the eventual January 6 attack on Capitol Hills mark a chaotic shift of power from the businessman to current President Joe Biden. Also read | In pics: What moving out of majestic white house looks like? His insistence against vacating the White House is a new detail and as CNN puts it, "adds new detail to the chaotic post-election period". In the early aftermath of the results, according to Haberman, who has been covering Trump since his win in 2016, the outgoing president appeared to acknowledge that he had lost to Biden. He even consoled one aide by stating, "We did our best." However, something caused his mood to shift, and he abruptly told staff members he had no plans to leave the White House for Biden to move in. Trump also reportedly said to Ronna McDaniel, the chair of the Republican National Committee, "Why should I leave if they stole it from me?" Also read | Donald Trump may still not have returned all classified documents, say US prosecutors The disclosures from the book come as US House and Justice Department investigators are looking into Trump's refusal to relinquish power after the 2020 election. Federal investigators have recently delivered subpoenas to a number of former Trump advisers, and the House select committee looking into January 6 is considering additional hearings and a final report this fall. (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.

Donald Trump vowed he won't leave White House or let Joe Biden move in, reveals new book

More than five years after leaving office, former United States president Barack Obama and his wife, former first lady Michelle Obama, returned to the White House on Wednesday (September 7) for the unveiling of their official portraits.&nbsp;

The event was hosted by fellow Democrat and the current President Joe Biden, who served as the vice president throughout Obama's two terms.&nbsp;

Obamas themselves unveiled the paintings which will get hung beside those of generations of previous first couples in the White House.&nbsp;

When they pulled the plain blue cloths that were covering the artworks, people present in the East Room cheered for the former president and former first lady.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/why-apples-new-emergency-sos-via-satellite-service-for-iphone-14-is-a-big-deal-513971">Why Apple's new Emergency SOS via satellite service for iPhone 14 is a 'big deal'&nbsp;</a>

Barack Obama's painting is made by artist Robert McCurdy, who put the grey-suited ex-president at the centre of his canvas, in a photorealistic portrait with a white background.&nbsp;

Brooklyn artist Sharon Sprung created Michelle's painting. The former first lady is pictured in a blue dress in the White House's Red Room.&nbsp;

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When future generations see these portraits by Robert McCurdy and Sharon Sprung in the White House, I hope they get a better, honest sense of who Michelle and I were. And I hope they leave with a deeper understanding that if we could make it, they can do remarkable things, too. <a href="https://t.co/3Eo1WNr31b">pic.twitter.com/3Eo1WNr31b</a>
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1567663147124723713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Barack and Michelle helped lift the American people's burden of fear with the blessing of hope. 
 
That’s the gift of the Obama presidency to history. And it’s a gift I felt personally. It was my honor to unveil their White House portraits today. <a href="https://t.co/YFTa5RPFx1">pic.twitter.com/YFTa5RPFx1</a>
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While speaking about Michelle, Barack Obama said, "It is my pleasure to introduce someone who needs no introduction. Michelle was the best thing about living in the White House. And let me tell you, the pastry chefs here deliver delicious pies on request."&nbsp;

He added, "So that is saying something I could not ask for a better life partner. And in my humble opinion, America could not have asked for a better first lady. Please give it up for Michelle Obama."&nbsp;

In the United States, invited to a former president returns for the unveiling during his successor's tenure, but Republican President Donald Trump's administration did not hold a ceremony for the Obamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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More than five years after leaving office, former United States president Barack Obama and his wife, former first lady Michelle Obama, returned to the White House on Wednesday (September 7) for the unveiling of their official portraits.

More than five years after leaving office, former United States president Barack Obama and his wife, former first lady Michelle Obama, returned to the White House on Wednesday (September 7) for the unveiling of their official portraits. The event was hosted by fellow Democrat and the current President Joe Biden, who served as the vice president throughout Obama's two terms. Obamas themselves unveiled the paintings which will get hung beside those of generations of previous first couples in the White House. When they pulled the plain blue cloths that were covering the artworks, people present in the East Room cheered for the former president and former first lady. ALSO READ | Why Apple's new Emergency SOS via satellite service for iPhone 14 is a 'big deal' Barack Obama's painting is made by artist Robert McCurdy, who put the grey-suited ex-president at the centre of his canvas, in a photorealistic portrait with a white background. Brooklyn artist Sharon Sprung created Michelle's painting. The former first lady is pictured in a blue dress in the White House's Red Room. When future generations see these portraits by Robert McCurdy and Sharon Sprung in the White House, I hope they get a better, honest sense of who Michelle and I were. And I hope they leave with a deeper understanding that if we could make it, they can do remarkable things, too. pic.twitter.com/3Eo1WNr31b — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) September 7, 2022 × Barack and Michelle helped lift the American people's burden of fear with the blessing of hope. That’s the gift of the Obama presidency to history. And it’s a gift I felt personally. It was my honor to unveil their White House portraits today. pic.twitter.com/YFTa5RPFx1 — President Biden (@POTUS) September 7, 2022 × While speaking about Michelle, Barack Obama said, "It is my pleasure to introduce someone who needs no introduction. Michelle was the best thing about living in the White House. And let me tell you, the pastry chefs here deliver delicious pies on request." He added, "So that is saying something I could not ask for a better life partner. And in my humble opinion, America could not have asked for a better first lady. Please give it up for Michelle Obama." In the United States, invited to a former president returns for the unveiling during his successor's tenure, but Republican President Donald Trump's administration did not hold a ceremony for the Obamas. (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.

Michelle Barack Obama get their White House portraits - see pictures

US President Joe Biden won’t be designating Russia as a state sponsor of terror, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has said.

She said that adding Russia to the US list of state sponsors of terrorism would bring “unintended consequences” and can harm the interests of US allies across the globe and Ukraine.

At the daily White House press briefing on Tuesday, Jean-Pierre said that such a designation is not “the most effective or strongest path forward ... to hold Russia accountable”.

“It could drive critical humanitarian and commercial actors away from facilitating food exports to help mitigate the global food crisis and jeopardize the Black Sea port deal that has already led to over a million tons of Ukrainian food exports,” she said.

The US official pointed out that declaring Russia a sponsor of terrorism would undermine the “unprecedented multilateral coalition” Biden has assembled in support of Ukraine’s fight against the Russian invasion.

Had Russia joined the US terror list, it would have been placed alongside Cuba, North Korea, Iran and Syria.

The White House spokesperson reasoned that US has already imposed “severe sanctions” on Moscow that are comparable to the consequence faced while being designated as the state sponsor of terror.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-buy-rockets-and-artillery-shells-from-north-korea-us-intelligence-513320">Russia to buy rockets and artillery shells from North Korea: US intelligence</a>

“We're going to support using further tools that work to promote accountability for Russia's war against Ukraine. And so that's going to be our focus as we move forward,” she said.

Meanwhile, Russia has appreciated US for not designating Russia as a&nbsp;state sponsor of terrorism and heaped praised Biden for his stance.

The Kremlin “appreciates” that Biden is not recognizing Russia as a state sponsor of terror, according to&nbsp;TASS.

“It is good that the U.S. president responded in this way,” Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, said on RBC TV, according to TASS.

“The very formulation of the issue is monstrous.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden won’t be designating Russia as a state sponsor of terror, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has said. She said that adding Russia to the US list of state sponsors of terrorism would bring “unintended consequences” and can harm the interests of US allies across the globe and Ukraine.

US President Joe Biden won’t be designating Russia as a state sponsor of terror, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has said. She said that adding Russia to the US list of state sponsors of terrorism would bring “unintended consequences” and can harm the interests of US allies across the globe and Ukraine. At the daily White House press briefing on Tuesday, Jean-Pierre said that such a designation is not “the most effective or strongest path forward ... to hold Russia accountable”. “It could drive critical humanitarian and commercial actors away from facilitating food exports to help mitigate the global food crisis and jeopardize the Black Sea port deal that has already led to over a million tons of Ukrainian food exports,” she said. The US official pointed out that declaring Russia a sponsor of terrorism would undermine the “unprecedented multilateral coalition” Biden has assembled in support of Ukraine’s fight against the Russian invasion. Had Russia joined the US terror list, it would have been placed alongside Cuba, North Korea, Iran and Syria. The White House spokesperson reasoned that US has already imposed “severe sanctions” on Moscow that are comparable to the consequence faced while being designated as the state sponsor of terror. Also read | Russia to buy rockets and artillery shells from North Korea: US intelligence “We're going to support using further tools that work to promote accountability for Russia's war against Ukraine. And so that's going to be our focus as we move forward,” she said. Meanwhile, Russia has appreciated US for not designating Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism and heaped praised Biden for his stance. The Kremlin “appreciates” that Biden is not recognizing Russia as a state sponsor of terror, according to TASS. “It is good that the U.S. president responded in this way,” Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, said on RBC TV, according to TASS. “The very formulation of the issue is monstrous.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US decides against designating Russia as state sponsor of terror, Kremlin praises Biden

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill are all set to unveil the portraits of predecessor Barak Obama and his wife Michelle on Wednesday.

This Washington tradition has been taking place for decades and managed to transcend partisan politics, but it witnessed a brief lull during the administration of Donald Trump.

But now, the Bidens have decided to carry the rich tradition and on Wednesday the White House will host the Obamas for the big reveal of their portraits in front of scores of friends, family and staff, reports AP.

This rich tradition has had the current president hosting his immediate predecessor for the unveiling — as Clinton did for George HW Bush, George W Bush did for Clinton and Obama did for the younger Bush.

The event will also mark Michelle’s first visit to the White House since Obama’s presidency ended in January 2017, except for Barack Obama who was at the White House in April to mark the 12th anniversary of the health care law he signed in 2010.

These portrait ceremonies are known to give past presidents an opportunity to showcase their comedic talent.

“I am pleased that my portrait brings an interesting symmetry to the White House collection. It now starts and ends with a George W,” Bush had joked at his ceremony in 2012.

In 2004, Bill Clinton quipped that “most of the time, till you get your picture hung like this, the only artists that draw you are cartoonists.”

Before presidents and first ladies leave office, they choose the artist or artists, and offer guidance on how they want to be portrayed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill are all set to unveil the portraits of predecessor Barak Obama and his wife Michelle on Wednesday. This Washington tradition has been taking place for decades and managed to transcend partisan politics, but it witnessed a brief lull during the administration of Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill are all set to unveil the portraits of predecessor Barak Obama and his wife Michelle on Wednesday. This Washington tradition has been taking place for decades and managed to transcend partisan politics, but it witnessed a brief lull during the administration of Donald Trump. But now, the Bidens have decided to carry the rich tradition and on Wednesday the White House will host the Obamas for the big reveal of their portraits in front of scores of friends, family and staff, reports AP. This rich tradition has had the current president hosting his immediate predecessor for the unveiling — as Clinton did for George HW Bush, George W Bush did for Clinton and Obama did for the younger Bush. The event will also mark Michelle’s first visit to the White House since Obama’s presidency ended in January 2017, except for Barack Obama who was at the White House in April to mark the 12th anniversary of the health care law he signed in 2010. These portrait ceremonies are known to give past presidents an opportunity to showcase their comedic talent. “I am pleased that my portrait brings an interesting symmetry to the White House collection. It now starts and ends with a George W,” Bush had joked at his ceremony in 2012. In 2004, Bill Clinton quipped that “most of the time, till you get your picture hung like this, the only artists that draw you are cartoonists.” Before presidents and first ladies leave office, they choose the artist or artists, and offer guidance on how they want to be portrayed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US President Biden revives decades-old tradition, set to unveil portraits of Obamas at White House

The FBI recently raided Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence. It was looking for official records which Trump allegedly stole from the White House. Joe Biden says he wasn't even aware about the raids. Trump is calling this a witch-hunt. Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Is Trump being subjected to a 'witch-hunt'?

Days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, President Joe Biden, for the first time remarked about the Chinese military exercise surrounding the island nation.

Days after US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, President Joe Biden, for the first time remarked about the Chinese military exercise surrounding the island nation. Stating that he wasn't worried about China, Biden said, "I'm not worried but I'm concerned that they are moving as much as they are. But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are." When pressed by a reporter if Pelosi's trip to Taiwan was a mistake, Biden asserted, “...that was her decision”. Building upon President Biden's statement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre added, “We’ve been condemning them since they started escalating. They are provocative, irresponsible and raise the risk of miscalculation. And that’s what he – the president – was referring to.” Biden's statements come in the backdrop of Pelosi's visit as well as his telephonic call with the Chinese President Xi Jinping last month. During the call, Jinping made it clear that Taiwan belonged to China. ''The fact and status quo that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and same China.'' Xi reportedly told Biden. Not allowing any room for “Taiwan independence” forces, Xi said China firmly opposed separatist moves toward it. "On Taiwan, President Biden underscored that the United States policy has not changed and that the United States strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," according to the White House. Today I spoke with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China as part of our efforts to deepen lines of communication, responsibly manage our differences, and address issues of mutual interest. pic.twitter.com/mwIeg35h8j — President Biden (@POTUS) July 28, 2022 × Read more: 'Those who play with fire will perish by it': Xi Jinping warns Joe Biden over Taiwan However, despite the call and Jinping's passive aggressive threat, Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan and set the chain of motions which has kept the region in constant turmoil since. As reported extensively by WION, China concluded its four-day extensive military exercise near Taiwan on Sunday. The military drills, which took place in six zones around the island, began on Thursday. It deployed more than 100 fighter jets, fired ballistic missiles and dispatched dozens of warships for the drill, the largest such exercise to be held around Taiwan. “After completing the mock strike mission, several bomber formations flew across the Taiwan Strait from north to south and from south to north simultaneously, carrying out a deterrence mission around the island jointly with other PLA services and branches,” said Global Times, the Chinese mouthpiece. However, on Monday, a day after the end of drills, China announced that more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations. According to experts, Beijing wants to continue to mount pressure on Taiwan and the international community. The visit by Pelosi undermined Jinping's 'One-China policy' and since then, Beijing has upped the ante. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan

In the United States, a lightning strike on Thursday (August 4) near the White House left four people in critical condition. The officials in the US capital said the lightning struck a small park across the street from the White House&nbsp;on Thursday evening as a severe thunderstorm hit the American capital.&nbsp;

According to a statement from Washington’s fire and emergencies department, the lightning left two men and two women with “critical life-threatening injuries”.&nbsp;

Local reports mentioned that the victims were taken to the local hospitals. However, there is no update on their current condition.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-cant-switch-off-death-the-chilling-effect-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-on-germanys-crematoriums-503977">'You can't switch off death': The 'chilling' effect of the Russia-Ukraine war on Germany's dead</a>&nbsp;

Photos posted by the department showed that multiple ambulances were rushed to the scene.&nbsp;

As quoted by CNN, Vito Maggiolo, who is a spokesperson for DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services, said in a news conference Thursday evening: “All four were suffering critical, life-threatening injuries.”&nbsp;

Citing a law enforcement source, CNN reported that the victims were riding out the storm under a tree. Although, local reports said that the officials are still trying to find out whether or not the victims knew each other.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heatwave-in-paris-reveals-paucity-of-trees-in-the-city-503915">Heatwave in Paris reveals paucity of trees in the city</a>&nbsp;

After the incident, part of the park remained closed and the emergency services were present at the scene.&nbsp;

The incident was captured on one of the cameras of FOX News.&nbsp;

Watch it here:&nbsp;

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WATCH: Fox weather camera captured this incredible lightning strike around the time the 4 people were struck near White House. <a href="https://t.co/9liRqW7tqx">https://t.co/9liRqW7tqx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/fox5dc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fox5dc</a> <a href="https://t.co/fsXTKCpYQq">pic.twitter.com/fsXTKCpYQq</a>
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In the United States, a lightning strike on Thursday (August 4) near the White House left four people in critical condition. The officials in the US capital said the lightning struck a small park across the street from the White House on Thursday evening as a severe thunderstorm hit the American capital.

In the United States, a lightning strike on Thursday (August 4) near the White House left four people in critical condition. The officials in the US capital said the lightning struck a small park across the street from the White House on Thursday evening as a severe thunderstorm hit the American capital. According to a statement from Washington’s fire and emergencies department, the lightning left two men and two women with “critical life-threatening injuries”. Local reports mentioned that the victims were taken to the local hospitals. However, there is no update on their current condition. ALSO READ | 'You can't switch off death': The 'chilling' effect of the Russia-Ukraine war on Germany's dead Photos posted by the department showed that multiple ambulances were rushed to the scene. As quoted by CNN, Vito Maggiolo, who is a spokesperson for DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services, said in a news conference Thursday evening: “All four were suffering critical, life-threatening injuries.” Citing a law enforcement source, CNN reported that the victims were riding out the storm under a tree. Although, local reports said that the officials are still trying to find out whether or not the victims knew each other. ALSO READ | Heatwave in Paris reveals paucity of trees in the city After the incident, part of the park remained closed and the emergency services were present at the scene. The incident was captured on one of the cameras of FOX News. Watch it here: WATCH: Fox weather camera captured this incredible lightning strike around the time the 4 people were struck near White House. https://t.co/9liRqW7tqx @fox5dc pic.twitter.com/fsXTKCpYQq — Lindsay Watts (@LindsayAWatts) August 5, 2022 × 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.

WATCH: Lightning strike near White House leaves four people in critical condition

Amid tensions over Taiwan, the United States has delayed postponed a routine test launch of an Air Force Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile.

US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, John Kirby said that Air Force had planned to conduct the test launch this week from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

Citing US officials, the Wall Street Journal earlier reported that the delay might last 10 days after the departure of House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi from Taipei.

In a show of force in the Taiwan Strait, China deployed scores of planes and fired live missiles near Taiwan.

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Condemning China's "irresponsible" decision and its overreaction to the visit of Pelosi, the White House said it expected Beijing would continue to react in such a manner.

"China has chosen to overreact and use the speaker's visit as a pretext to increase provocative military activity in and around the Taiwan Strait," Kirby said.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US military canceled a test of its Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile with the aim of lowering nuclear tensions with Moscow.

Minuteman III, which has a range of 6,000-plus miles (9,660-plus km), is a key part of the US military's strategic arsenal.

The nuclear-capable missile can travel at a speed of approximately 15,000 miles per hour (24,000 kph).

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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&nbsp;

Amid tensions over Taiwan, the United States has delayed postponed a routine test launch of an Air Force Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, John Kirby said that Air Force had planned to conduct the test launch this week from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

Amid tensions over Taiwan, the United States has delayed postponed a routine test launch of an Air Force Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, John Kirby said that Air Force had planned to conduct the test launch this week from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Citing US officials, the Wall Street Journal earlier reported that the delay might last 10 days after the departure of House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi from Taipei. In a show of force in the Taiwan Strait, China deployed scores of planes and fired live missiles near Taiwan. × Condemning China's "irresponsible" decision and its overreaction to the visit of Pelosi, the White House said it expected Beijing would continue to react in such a manner. "China has chosen to overreact and use the speaker's visit as a pretext to increase provocative military activity in and around the Taiwan Strait," Kirby said. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US military canceled a test of its Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile with the aim of lowering nuclear tensions with Moscow. Minuteman III, which has a range of 6,000-plus miles (9,660-plus km), is a key part of the US military's strategic arsenal. The nuclear-capable missile can travel at a speed of approximately 15,000 miles per hour (24,000 kph). (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

White House says Minuteman III missile test delayed to de-escalate China standoff

Reports say the White House tried to discourage Nancy Pelosi from visiting Taiwan during her Asia trip. Was President Biden opposed to her visit? What did the US gain from this brinkmanship? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Did Joe Biden oppose Pelosi's Taiwan visit?

The largest blow to the terrorists after Osama bin Laden’s death in 2011, came recently after the death of Al Qaeda’s commander, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was killed in a drone missile strike&nbsp;on the balcony of his hideout in the middle of Kabul. However, the assassination of the Al Qaeda leader is not DNA-confirmed, as per the White House. Additionally, it stated that "other sources" have confirmed Zawahiri’s identity and his death, even though the Taliban administration in Afghanistan has not yet acknowledged the Al Qaeda leader’s passing.

However, John Kirby said, "We do not have DNA confirmation. We're not going to get that confirmation. Quite frankly, based on multiple sources and methods that we've gathered information from, we don't need it. "

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-zawahiris-death-us-state-department-warns-citizens-for-increased-violence-risk-503089">After Zawahiri’s death, US State Department warns citizens for violence risks</a>

The spokesman further added that they have visual confirmation along with source confirmation. Kirby also stated that there was still a minimal presence of al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Al-Qaeda chief killed in US drone strike on Kabul

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US President Joe Biden stated, "Now justice has been delivered, and this terrorist leader is no more." He further added that no matter how long it takes, if an individual possess threat to people, US will find him. The United States is certain about Zawahiri’s death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ayman-al-zawahiri-the-al-qaeda-chief-killed-by-us-strike-502755">Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri, the Al-Qaeda chief killed by US strike?</a>

A $25 million bounty was placed on Aymans al-head. Zawahiri had participated in the planning of the September 11, 2001 attack or the 9/11, attack on the American twin towers resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people.

On one hand, where the US is sure about his death, the Taliban hasn’t acknowledged the event yet. According to the US by providing shelter to Zawahiri, the Taliban government allegedly broke a deal with the US. Taliban, however, has described the ‘strike’ as a violation of international values.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The largest blow to the terrorists after Osama bin Laden’s death in 2011, came recently after the death of Al Qaeda’s commander, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was killed in a drone missile strike on the balcony of his hideout in the middle of Kabul.

The largest blow to the terrorists after Osama bin Laden’s death in 2011, came recently after the death of Al Qaeda’s commander, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was killed in a drone missile strike on the balcony of his hideout in the middle of Kabul. However, the assassination of the Al Qaeda leader is not DNA-confirmed, as per the White House. Additionally, it stated that "other sources" have confirmed Zawahiri’s identity and his death, even though the Taliban administration in Afghanistan has not yet acknowledged the Al Qaeda leader’s passing. However, John Kirby said, "We do not have DNA confirmation. We're not going to get that confirmation. Quite frankly, based on multiple sources and methods that we've gathered information from, we don't need it. " Also read | After Zawahiri’s death, US State Department warns citizens for violence risks The spokesman further added that they have visual confirmation along with source confirmation. Kirby also stated that there was still a minimal presence of al-Qaeda in Afghanistan. Watch | Gravitas: Al-Qaeda chief killed in US drone strike on Kabul US President Joe Biden stated, "Now justice has been delivered, and this terrorist leader is no more." He further added that no matter how long it takes, if an individual possess threat to people, US will find him. The United States is certain about Zawahiri’s death. Also read | Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri, the Al-Qaeda chief killed by US strike? A $25 million bounty was placed on Aymans al-head. Zawahiri had participated in the planning of the September 11, 2001 attack or the 9/11, attack on the American twin towers resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. On one hand, where the US is sure about his death, the Taliban hasn’t acknowledged the event yet. According to the US by providing shelter to Zawahiri, the Taliban government allegedly broke a deal with the US. Taliban, however, has described the ‘strike’ as a violation of international values. (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.

'We don’t need it’: US lacks DNA confirmation for Ayman al-Zawahiri’s death

The US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Asia tour is becoming a matter of controversy as a potential Taiwan visit irked China. After Pelosi kicked off her tour in Singapore on Monday, Beijing even said that its military will “not sit idly by”.&nbsp;

China has issued several warnings. Beijing is angry because of Pelosi’s status as the “No. 3 official of the US government”. China believes that a visit to Taiwan would “lead to egregious political impact”.&nbsp;

Now, in the latest development, the White House warned China against overreacting to a trip by Pelosi to Taiwan. Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS reported citing sources that the US House of Representatives Speaker will arrive in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan on Tuesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-planes-and-warships-positioned-near-line-taiwan-strait-ahead-of-nancy-pelosi-visit-report-502766">Chinese planes and warships positioned near line dividing Taiwan Strait ahead of Nancy Pelosi visit: Report</a>&nbsp;

In its message to China, the White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters that Pelosi would have every right to visit the self-ruled island and added that China need not turn any visit by Pelosi into a “crisis”. Kirby even warned that Beijing may be “positioning” itself for a show of military strength around the island.

Reports mentioned that the White House and State Department are opposed to Pelosi’s trip. But Kirby made it clear that the speaker was entitled to go where she pleased.

Kirby said, “The speaker has the right to visit Taiwan. There is no reason for Beijing to turn a potential visit consistent with longstanding US policies into some sort of crisis.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pelosi-visit-china-shows-displeasure-by-suspending-import-of-taiwanese-biscuits-502887">Pelosi visit: China shows displeasure by suspending import of Taiwanese biscuits</a>&nbsp;

China has claimed Taiwan as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. China has even said that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories.&nbsp;

The United States says it backs Taiwan’s sovereignty but such statements have angered China as it warned President Joe Biden that his administration saying that the US was playing “with fire” and announced a series of live-fire military drills in the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Asia tour is becoming a matter of controversy as a potential Taiwan visit irked China. After Pelosi kicked off her tour in Singapore on Monday, Beijing even said that its military will “not sit idly by”.

The US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Asia tour is becoming a matter of controversy as a potential Taiwan visit irked China. After Pelosi kicked off her tour in Singapore on Monday, Beijing even said that its military will “not sit idly by”. China has issued several warnings. Beijing is angry because of Pelosi’s status as the “No. 3 official of the US government”. China believes that a visit to Taiwan would “lead to egregious political impact”. Now, in the latest development, the White House warned China against overreacting to a trip by Pelosi to Taiwan. Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS reported citing sources that the US House of Representatives Speaker will arrive in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Chinese planes and warships positioned near line dividing Taiwan Strait ahead of Nancy Pelosi visit: Report In its message to China, the White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters that Pelosi would have every right to visit the self-ruled island and added that China need not turn any visit by Pelosi into a “crisis”. Kirby even warned that Beijing may be “positioning” itself for a show of military strength around the island. Reports mentioned that the White House and State Department are opposed to Pelosi’s trip. But Kirby made it clear that the speaker was entitled to go where she pleased. Kirby said, “The speaker has the right to visit Taiwan. There is no reason for Beijing to turn a potential visit consistent with longstanding US policies into some sort of crisis.” ALSO READ | Pelosi visit: China shows displeasure by suspending import of Taiwanese biscuits China has claimed Taiwan as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. China has even said that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. The United States says it backs Taiwan’s sovereignty but such statements have angered China as it warned President Joe Biden that his administration saying that the US was playing “with fire” and announced a series of live-fire military drills in the Taiwan Strait. 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.

‘Speaker has the right to visit Taiwan’: White House asks China to not turn Pelosi’s visit into ‘crisis’

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid. 
 
"Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signs-russian-naval-doctrine-marks-us-nato-as-main-threats-to-national-security-502301" hreflang="en">Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security</a>

Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far.

"Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-as-un-peacekeeping-forces-open-fire-in-democratic-republic-of-congo-502364" hreflang="en">Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo</a>

As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately.

Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time.

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid. "Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read. Also read | Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far. "Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward. Also read | Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately. Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden 'feeling well and isolating' after testing positive for COVID-19 again

US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19, according to the White House, forcing him back into isolation after several days of testing negative.

US President Joe Biden tests positive for COVID-19 again, returns to isolation

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

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

Underscoring the international tensions surrounding House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan, the White House said Friday that there is no reason for China and the US “to come to blows”.

During the press briefing, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby was asked if the US has noticed any Chinese military preparations due to her travel plans.

“There’s no reason for it to come to that, to come to blows, to come to increased physical tension,” he said.

Kirby’s statement comes after Chinese President Xi Jinping warned US President Joe Biden not to “play with fire” by supporting Taiwan.

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Citing security concerns, Pelosi and her aides have not confirmed her travel plans or named the countries she might visit during an Asia trip.

Warning of “resolute and strong measures” if she does, China has objected strenuously to any Taiwan visit by Pelosi.

With some Republicans urging her to visit Taiwan as a show of standing up to Beijing, Pelosi’s itinerary has also become a domestic political issue.

Although American presidents rarely deny requests by lawmakers to the military for supplying aircraft, in 2019 Donald Trump blocked Pelosi and other lawmakers from using a military plane to visit Afghanistan.

Experts believed that the decision was made by Trump after she told him to delay his State of the Union address.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Underscoring the international tensions surrounding House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan, the White House said Friday that there is no reason for China and the US “to come to blows”.

Underscoring the international tensions surrounding House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan, the White House said Friday that there is no reason for China and the US “to come to blows”. During the press briefing, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby was asked if the US has noticed any Chinese military preparations due to her travel plans. “There’s no reason for it to come to that, to come to blows, to come to increased physical tension,” he said. Kirby’s statement comes after Chinese President Xi Jinping warned US President Joe Biden not to “play with fire” by supporting Taiwan. × Citing security concerns, Pelosi and her aides have not confirmed her travel plans or named the countries she might visit during an Asia trip. Warning of “resolute and strong measures” if she does, China has objected strenuously to any Taiwan visit by Pelosi. With some Republicans urging her to visit Taiwan as a show of standing up to Beijing, Pelosi’s itinerary has also become a domestic political issue. Although American presidents rarely deny requests by lawmakers to the military for supplying aircraft, in 2019 Donald Trump blocked Pelosi and other lawmakers from using a military plane to visit Afghanistan. Experts believed that the decision was made by Trump after she told him to delay his State of the Union address. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

No need to come to blows, says White House on Pelosi’s potential visit to Taiwan

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

WION Fineprint: Donald Trump teases 2024 Presidential run

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

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

In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus.

Vaccines that are available right now offer strong protection against Covid. But evolution of the virus is reducing their effectivness.

Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the efforts would be based on two pillars: "pan-coronavirus" vaccines that would stand up to variants and "mucosal" vaccines that are delivered nasally to stop the virus where it enters.

"The goal of that is not only to protect against disease, but to protect against acquisition, and by acquisition, transmission," he said of the intranasal vaccine.

It may be possible to make a pan-coronavirus vaccine by taking pieces of different coronavirus variants. This is called a 'mosaic' approach.

Nasal vaccines are being tested in mice, where they have shown promise, while vaccine developers Pfizer and BioNTech have announced they will work towards trials for universal coronavirus vaccines.

In a commentary for Science magazine, scientists Eric Topol and Akiko Iwasaki argued that a new funding program for next-generation vaccines was needed, along the lines of Operation Warp Speed, which funneled $10 billion into vaccine development early in the pandemic.

"The objective of breaking the chain of transmission at the individual and population level will put us in a far better position to achieve containment of the virus, no less reducing the toll of sickness and long Covid," they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus.

In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus. Vaccines that are available right now offer strong protection against Covid. But evolution of the virus is reducing their effectivness. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the efforts would be based on two pillars: "pan-coronavirus" vaccines that would stand up to variants and "mucosal" vaccines that are delivered nasally to stop the virus where it enters. "The goal of that is not only to protect against disease, but to protect against acquisition, and by acquisition, transmission," he said of the intranasal vaccine. It may be possible to make a pan-coronavirus vaccine by taking pieces of different coronavirus variants. This is called a 'mosaic' approach. Nasal vaccines are being tested in mice, where they have shown promise, while vaccine developers Pfizer and BioNTech have announced they will work towards trials for universal coronavirus vaccines. In a commentary for Science magazine, scientists Eric Topol and Akiko Iwasaki argued that a new funding program for next-generation vaccines was needed, along the lines of Operation Warp Speed, which funneled $10 billion into vaccine development early in the pandemic. "The objective of breaking the chain of transmission at the individual and population level will put us in a far better position to achieve containment of the virus, no less reducing the toll of sickness and long Covid," they said. (With inputs from agencies) 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 bats for next-gen Covid vaccines

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