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What if you find out that all the presidents in the history of America have been one or the other way related? Yes, that's right. All the US presidents to date, except &nbsp;Martin Van Buren, have the same ancestors and are cousins or distantly related. The majority of the American presidents' ancestors were from Britain. It was primarily due to the origins as a group of former English colonies.&nbsp;Let's understand this in detail - taking some of the presidents on the list. George WashingtonThe great-grandfather of George Washington &nbsp;was from Hertfordshire, England. He travelled and settled in the Colony of Virginia in 1657. A majority - or even all of the ancestors of George Washington - were originally from England.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-nuclear-talks-still-in-limbo-tehran-says-point-of-maturity-not-reached-with-washington-yet-1755702976855">US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet</a>&nbsp;Abraham LincolnProbably one of America's most famous presidents, Abraham Lincoln, was of English descent. His ancestor, Samuel Lincoln, emigrated from Norfolk to Massachusetts in 1638.&nbsp;Franklin D RooseveltFranklin D Roosevelt was born in New York and was distantly related to the 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt. His parents were sixth cousins. His wife, Eleanor, was his fifth cousin.&nbsp;John F Kennedy F Kennedy had Irish roots, and it is widely known. All of his great-grandparents were Irish immigrants who made new lives in Massachusetts, and he was America's first Irish-Catholic president.&nbsp;Barack Obama America’s first black president, Barack Obama, was born in Hawaii. His family roots were spread from Kenya to Ireland. His DNA makeup also includes English, Scots-Irish, Welsh, German, and Swiss ancestral lines.&nbsp;Joe BidenApart from a well-known Irish family connection, Joe Biden has a mix of ancestors. His mother was English and his father was French. Donald Trump Donald Trump's paternal grandparents were German immigrants. His mother was born in Scotland.

A theory around the ancestors of all the US presidents claims that all the presidents in the history of America are related in one way or the other. 

What if you find out that all the presidents in the history of America have been one or the other way related? Yes, that's right. All the US presidents to date, except Martin Van Buren, have the same ancestors and are cousins or distantly related. The majority of the American presidents' ancestors were from Britain. It was primarily due to the origins as a group of former English colonies. Let's understand this in detail - taking some of the presidents on the list. George Washington The great-grandfather of George Washington was from Hertfordshire, England. He travelled and settled in the Colony of Virginia in 1657. A majority - or even all of the ancestors of George Washington - were originally from England. Also read: US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet Abraham Lincoln Probably one of America's most famous presidents, Abraham Lincoln, was of English descent. His ancestor, Samuel Lincoln, emigrated from Norfolk to Massachusetts in 1638. Franklin D Roosevelt Franklin D Roosevelt was born in New York and was distantly related to the 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt. His parents were sixth cousins. His wife, Eleanor, was his fifth cousin. John F Kennedy F Kennedy had Irish roots, and it is widely known. All of his great-grandparents were Irish immigrants who made new lives in Massachusetts, and he was America's first Irish-Catholic president. Barack Obama America’s first black president, Barack Obama, was born in Hawaii. His family roots were spread from Kenya to Ireland. His DNA makeup also includes English, Scots-Irish, Welsh, German, and Swiss ancestral lines. Joe Biden Apart from a well-known Irish family connection, Joe Biden has a mix of ancestors. His mother was English and his father was French. Donald Trump Donald Trump's paternal grandparents were German immigrants. His mother was born in Scotland.

A theory around the ancestors of all the US presidents claims that all the presidents in the history of America are related in one way or the other.

Do you know all US presidents are relatives? The theory of their ancestor will shock you

After Donald Trump's two high-profile meetings with the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, the solution to the war is yet to be found. After meeting Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, Trump announced that he is working on arranging a bilateral meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The exact date has yet to be determined. The exact location has yet to come. But during this phase, the prime question is still there: Will Putin meet Zelensky? Well, the analysis says Putin is unlikely to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, not right now, and not later on. And there are some prominent reasons for it. Let's find out.<h2>Trump's announcement</h2>Just after his meeting with Zelensky, Trump took to Truth Social and said he had a call with the Russian president. Although it was reported that Trump paused his meeting with the Ukrainian president to call Putin but Trump claimed it was at the end of the meeting. "I had a very good meeting with distinguished guests, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, of Ukraine, President Emmanuel Macron ... in the White House, which ended in a further meeting in the Oval Office. During the meeting we discussed Security Guarantees for Ukraine, which Guarantees would be provided by the various European Countries, with a coordination with the United States of America. Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine," Trump wrote on his Truth Social. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-doesn-t-have-courage-to-meet-zelensky-german-chancellor-says-here-s-what-russian-president-says-1755558363160">Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says</a> "At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelenskyy. After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself," the American president said.<h2>'Must be prepared with the utmost care'</h2>After this,Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov took a more conciliatory tone in a state TV interview on Tuesday (August 19), saying, “We do not refuse any forms of work – neither bilateral nor trilateral." He added, &nbsp;“Any contacts involving top officials must be prepared with the utmost care.”&nbsp;This was a subtle way to indicate that Russia is not going to agree on this. And this was naturally expected.<h2>What do experts say?</h2>Putin began this war with Ukraine by unilaterally announcing a chunk of Ukrainian land as independent. &nbsp;He has argued Ukraine is “an inalienable part of (Russia’s) own history, culture and spiritual space,” and its separation from Russia is a historical mistake.&nbsp;Hence, if the meeting between the Russian and Ukraineian presidents takes place, Putin will have to "accept the failure of sitting down with a president he considers a joke from a country that doesn’t exist” - as &nbsp;Orysia Lutsevich, the director of Chatham House’s Russia and Eurasia program, said.&nbsp;She also told CNN that the meeting would make it difficult for Putin to explain the change in tone to the Russians. “(Putin) so much brainwashed Russians on state television that Zelensky’s a Nazi, that (Ukraine’s) a puppet state of the West … that Zelensky’s illegitimate, why is he suddenly talking to him?” she said. Moreover, Tatiana Stanovaya, senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center and founder of R.Politik, said that Putin does not see a meeting with Zelensky as critical in a war. Rather, he would only agree to meeting his Ukrainian counterpart if he knew the meeting would be in his favour.<h2>'I don't think you need a ceasefire'</h2>Trump had previously said there would be "severe consequences" if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. But after his meeting with Zelensky, when he was asked if his ultimate goal remains unchanged, the American president does not think that a ceasefire is needed in the first place.&nbsp;"I don’t think you need a ceasefire," Trump said. He says a ceasefire is “good to have,” but he could understand why one country might not want one. "We can work a peace deal while they’re fighting. They have to fight. I wish they could stop, I’d like them to stop, but strategically that could be a disadvantage for one side or the other," the American president said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin might never be ready to meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. And there are multiple reasons behind this possibility. Here, we have mentioned a few of the. 

After Donald Trump's two high-profile meetings with the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, the solution to the war is yet to be found. After meeting Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, Trump announced that he is working on arranging a bilateral meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The exact date has yet to be determined. The exact location has yet to come. But during this phase, the prime question is still there: Will Putin meet Zelensky? Well, the analysis says Putin is unlikely to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, not right now, and not later on. And there are some prominent reasons for it. Let's find out. Trump's announcement Just after his meeting with Zelensky, Trump took to Truth Social and said he had a call with the Russian president. Although it was reported that Trump paused his meeting with the Ukrainian president to call Putin but Trump claimed it was at the end of the meeting. "I had a very good meeting with distinguished guests, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, of Ukraine, President Emmanuel Macron ... in the White House, which ended in a further meeting in the Oval Office. During the meeting we discussed Security Guarantees for Ukraine, which Guarantees would be provided by the various European Countries, with a coordination with the United States of America. Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine," Trump wrote on his Truth Social. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says "At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelenskyy. After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself," the American president said. 'Must be prepared with the utmost care' After this,Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov took a more conciliatory tone in a state TV interview on Tuesday (August 19), saying, “We do not refuse any forms of work – neither bilateral nor trilateral." He added, “Any contacts involving top officials must be prepared with the utmost care.” This was a subtle way to indicate that Russia is not going to agree on this. And this was naturally expected. What do experts say? Putin began this war with Ukraine by unilaterally announcing a chunk of Ukrainian land as independent. He has argued Ukraine is “an inalienable part of (Russia’s) own history, culture and spiritual space,” and its separation from Russia is a historical mistake. Hence, if the meeting between the Russian and Ukraineian presidents takes place, Putin will have to "accept the failure of sitting down with a president he considers a joke from a country that doesn’t exist” - as Orysia Lutsevich, the director of Chatham House’s Russia and Eurasia program, said. She also told CNN that the meeting would make it difficult for Putin to explain the change in tone to the Russians. “(Putin) so much brainwashed Russians on state television that Zelensky’s a Nazi, that (Ukraine’s) a puppet state of the West … that Zelensky’s illegitimate, why is he suddenly talking to him?” she said. Moreover, Tatiana Stanovaya, senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center and founder of R.Politik, said that Putin does not see a meeting with Zelensky as critical in a war. Rather, he would only agree to meeting his Ukrainian counterpart if he knew the meeting would be in his favour. 'I don't think you need a ceasefire' Trump had previously said there would be "severe consequences" if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. But after his meeting with Zelensky, when he was asked if his ultimate goal remains unchanged, the American president does not think that a ceasefire is needed in the first place. "I don’t think you need a ceasefire," Trump said. He says a ceasefire is “good to have,” but he could understand why one country might not want one. "We can work a peace deal while they’re fighting. They have to fight. I wish they could stop, I’d like them to stop, but strategically that could be a disadvantage for one side or the other," the American president said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin might never be ready to meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. And there are multiple reasons behind this possibility. Here, we have mentioned a few of the.

Putin may NEVER meet Zelensky - and THIS is the reason

Israel’s military has initiated the first steps of its planned operation to take over Gaza City after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the group, Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said on Wednesday. After a clash with Hamas south of Khan Younis in the strip on Wednesday, Defrin said, “We will deepen the attack on Hamas in Gaza City, a stronghold of governmental and military terror for the terrorist organisation.”The Israeli troops have already started circling the outskirts of Gaza City and Hamas was now a “battered and bruised” guerrilla force.“We have begun the preliminary operations and the first stages of the attack on Gaza City, and already now [Israeli military] forces are holding the outskirts of Gaza City,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-calls-for-release-of-nepali-hostage-in-hamas-captivity-1755668593295">Israeli President calls for release of Nepali hostage in Hamas captivity</a>&nbsp;The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed on Wednesday that the Israeli premier had ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the militant group, but it did not specify the new timelines.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-palestinians-in-gaza-city-to-be-displaced-again-ahead-of-idf-operations-1755710966193/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-palestinians-in-gaza-city-to-be-displaced-again-ahead-of-idf-operations-1755710966193/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel’s military has called up tens of thousands of reservists in preparation for the assault on Gaza City, as the Israeli government considered a new proposal for a ceasefire after nearly two years of war.The call-up indicates that Israel is moving ahead with its plan to seize Gaza’s biggest urban centre despite international disapproval of an operation that is likely to result in the displacement of more Palestinians.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-uses-rape-as-weapon-israel-s-first-lady-backs-un-move-to-blacklist-hamas-says-sexual-abuse-in-captivity-is-not-incidental-1755624695154">'Uses rape as weapon': Israel's First Lady backs UN move to 'blacklist' Hamas, says 'sexual abuse' in captivity is not 'incidental'</a>&nbsp;A military official briefing reporters said that the reserve soldiers would not report for duty until September, an interval that gives mediators some time to close in the gaps between Hamas and Israel over truce terms.On Wednesday, Israeli troops clashed with more than 15 Hamas militants who emerged from tunnel shafts and attacked them with gunfire and anti-tank missiles near Khan Younis, south of Gaza City, severely wounding one soldier and lightly wounding two others, said an Israeli military official.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hamas-should-be-confronted-destroyed-trump-falsely-claims-he-got-hundreds-of-hostages-released-how-many-were-actually-freed-by-hamas-1755526404389">'Hamas should be confronted, destroyed': Trump falsely claims he 'got hundreds of hostages' released - How many were actually freed by Hamas?</a>&nbsp;Hamas’ al-Qassam Brigades confirmed carrying out a raid on Israeli troops southeast of Khan Younis and engaging Israeli troops at point-blank range. It said in a statement that one fighter blew himself up among the soldiers, causing casualties, during the attack.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Wednesday that the Israeli premier had ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the militant group, but it did not specify the new timelines.

Israel’s military has initiated the first steps of its planned operation to take over Gaza City after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the group, Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said on Wednesday. After a clash with Hamas south of Khan Younis in the strip on Wednesday, Defrin said, “We will deepen the attack on Hamas in Gaza City, a stronghold of governmental and military terror for the terrorist organisation.” The Israeli troops have already started circling the outskirts of Gaza City and Hamas was now a “battered and bruised” guerrilla force. “We have begun the preliminary operations and the first stages of the attack on Gaza City, and already now [Israeli military] forces are holding the outskirts of Gaza City,” he said. Also Read: Israeli President calls for release of Nepali hostage in Hamas captivity The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed on Wednesday that the Israeli premier had ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the militant group, but it did not specify the new timelines. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-palestinians-in-gaza-city-to-be-displaced-again-ahead-of-idf-operations-1755710966193/embed Meanwhile, Israel’s military has called up tens of thousands of reservists in preparation for the assault on Gaza City, as the Israeli government considered a new proposal for a ceasefire after nearly two years of war. The call-up indicates that Israel is moving ahead with its plan to seize Gaza’s biggest urban centre despite international disapproval of an operation that is likely to result in the displacement of more Palestinians. Also Read: 'Uses rape as weapon': Israel's First Lady backs UN move to 'blacklist' Hamas, says 'sexual abuse' in captivity is not 'incidental' A military official briefing reporters said that the reserve soldiers would not report for duty until September, an interval that gives mediators some time to close in the gaps between Hamas and Israel over truce terms. On Wednesday, Israeli troops clashed with more than 15 Hamas militants who emerged from tunnel shafts and attacked them with gunfire and anti-tank missiles near Khan Younis, south of Gaza City, severely wounding one soldier and lightly wounding two others, said an Israeli military official. Also Read: 'Hamas should be confronted, destroyed': Trump falsely claims he 'got hundreds of hostages' released - How many were actually freed by Hamas? Hamas’ al-Qassam Brigades confirmed carrying out a raid on Israeli troops southeast of Khan Younis and engaging Israeli troops at point-blank range. It said in a statement that one fighter blew himself up among the soldiers, causing casualties, during the attack.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Wednesday that the Israeli premier had ordered a reduction in timelines for taking control of Hamas strongholds and defeating the militant group, but it did not specify the new timelines.

IDF initiates steps for Gaza takeover after Netanyahu orders reduction in timelines

Following significant tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump over the purchase of oil from Russia, the demand from the South Asian country for Moscow’s crude has dropped. Taking advantage of the situation, Chinese refineries have placed new orders for Russian crude from ports that earlier supplied to New Delhi, according to reports. After Western countries halted Russian imports following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, China and India emerged as the top buyers of oil from Russia.CNN reported, citing analysts, that at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil have been secured by Chinese refineries, which will be delivered in October and November this year.<h2>Did tariffs result in drop in demand for Russian oil?</h2>Earlier in July, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil in a bid to pressure Moscow to end the war in Ukraine, which is in its fourth year. Earlier this month, Trump imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, on top of the initial 25 per cent duties, citing Russian oil and gas imposed. The move has led the country to cut down its purchases drastically, reported CNN.Muyu Xu, senior crude oil analyst at Kpler, which tracks commodities and shipping data, said that China’s state-owned and large private refiners had purchased about 13 cargoes of Russian crude that will be delivered in October. In addition, at least two such purchases have been made for the month of November.Reportedly, the 15 cargoes of oil, which usually range from 700,000 to 1 million barrels, are set to be supplied from Russia’s Arctic and Black Sea ports, which typically supply to India, Xu said.In a similar report, Reuters claimed, “Indian state refiners paused Russian oil purchases last month.” The report, citing a trade source, added that the cargoes were most likely at the beginning of the month.<h2>Trump tariff threats</h2>Meanwhile, India earlier said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia following Trump’s tariff threats, which it called unjust and unreasonable, and continues to buy for economic considerations.Reuters report added that Chinese refiners are also wary about the possibility of US sanctions. Trump on Friday said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.”

China has purchased at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil for deliveries in October and November from ports which typically supplied to India, which is currently facing a drop in demand amid Trump’s tariff threats, according to reports.

Following significant tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump over the purchase of oil from Russia, the demand from the South Asian country for Moscow’s crude has dropped. Taking advantage of the situation, Chinese refineries have placed new orders for Russian crude from ports that earlier supplied to New Delhi, according to reports. After Western countries halted Russian imports following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, China and India emerged as the top buyers of oil from Russia. CNN reported, citing analysts, that at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil have been secured by Chinese refineries, which will be delivered in October and November this year. Did tariffs result in drop in demand for Russian oil? Earlier in July, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil in a bid to pressure Moscow to end the war in Ukraine, which is in its fourth year. Earlier this month, Trump imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, on top of the initial 25 per cent duties, citing Russian oil and gas imposed. The move has led the country to cut down its purchases drastically, reported CNN. Muyu Xu, senior crude oil analyst at Kpler, which tracks commodities and shipping data, said that China’s state-owned and large private refiners had purchased about 13 cargoes of Russian crude that will be delivered in October. In addition, at least two such purchases have been made for the month of November. Reportedly, the 15 cargoes of oil, which usually range from 700,000 to 1 million barrels, are set to be supplied from Russia’s Arctic and Black Sea ports, which typically supply to India, Xu said. In a similar report, Reuters claimed, “Indian state refiners paused Russian oil purchases last month.” The report, citing a trade source, added that the cargoes were most likely at the beginning of the month. Trump tariff threats Meanwhile, India earlier said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia following Trump’s tariff threats, which it called unjust and unreasonable, and continues to buy for economic considerations. Reuters report added that Chinese refiners are also wary about the possibility of US sanctions. Trump on Friday said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.”

China has purchased at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil for deliveries in October and November from ports which typically supplied to India, which is currently facing a drop in demand amid Trump’s tariff threats, according to reports.

China ramping up Russian oil purchase amid Trump’s tariff threats? Reports claim drop in Indian demand

Russia and India will continue their energy trade despite pressure from the US, as Moscow has offered India a 5 per cent discount on oil, despite the sanctions on the latter from the West. The Deputy Trade Representative of Russia to India, Evgeniy Griva, said on Wednesday, “There will be a 5 per cent discount, subject to negotiation, on Russian crude oil purchases to India.” “Despite the political situation, approximately the same level of oil will be imported by India,” Griva said and added, “As for discounts, it’s a commercial secret. I think, because it’s usually just dialogue between businessmen and approximately usually 5%. It’s fluctuating, but usually it’s plus-minus 5%.”&nbsp;Griva was joined by Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin, who said, “We have trust in our ties,” although it is a “challenging situation” for New Delhi.&nbsp;“We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-russian-diplomat-said-on-india-s-relations-with-pakistan-and-china-amid-trump-s-tariff-war-1755676203361">What Russian diplomat said on India's relations with Pakistan and China amid Trump's tariff war</a><h2>US accused India of funding Ukraine war</h2>&nbsp;The US has accused India of funding the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil and imposed 50 per cent tariffs on New Delhi for buying oil from Russia.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt even said that Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on India was aimed at indirectly pressuring Russia to end its war in Ukraine.White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had said that India acts as a global clearinghouse for Russian oil, converting embargoed crude into high-value exports while giving Moscow the dollars it needs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-mean-sudarshan-chakra-russian-diplomat-responds-on-being-about-india-s-iron-dome-1755673209969">'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome</a><h2>India condemned US tariffs</h2>&nbsp;India has refused to cower down and has called out the West's duplicity and double standards by presenting hard facts. India also condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”In its rebuttal, the Ministry of External Affairs said the US “actively encouraged” India’s oil imports from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. The MEA said India’s oil trade with Russia was a result of the global market situation, while the EU and US were engaging with Russia in trade that was “not even a vital national compulsion”.New Delhi also reiterated its priority of energy security and choice of trade between partners as a sovereign nation.Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that New Delhi would not back down in the face of economic pressure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pushes-back-against-us-sanctions-against-india-says-our-market-open-for-indian-goods-calls-brics-a-stabilisnig-force-1755670870025">Russia pushes back against US 'sanctions' against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising force</a><h2>Moscow lauds India for standing its ground on trade&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Moscow has lauded India for standing its ground on trade partners and asserting its freedom of choice against American bullying.Ambassador Babushkin said he doesn’t see American tariffs sabotaging the India-Russia oil trade.“Russia has a special mechanism to continue crude oil supplies to India. We are committed to sit with India to address these problems and remove them,” he said on Wednesday.Russian trade official Griva added that there was a “mechanism” to address shipping and insurance-related issues. He said Russia provided about 40% of India’s oil needs, which came at around 5% discount per barrel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The US earlier threatened sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on countries that buy its oil if no moves are made to end the war in Ukraine. China and India are the top two buyers of Russian oil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen as India condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Russia and India will continue their energy trade despite pressure from the US, as Moscow has offered India a 5 per cent discount on oil, despite the sanctions on the latter from the West. The Deputy Trade Representative of Russia to India, Evgeniy Griva, said on Wednesday, “There will be a 5 per cent discount, subject to negotiation, on Russian crude oil purchases to India.” “Despite the political situation, approximately the same level of oil will be imported by India,” Griva said and added, “As for discounts, it’s a commercial secret. I think, because it’s usually just dialogue between businessmen and approximately usually 5%. It’s fluctuating, but usually it’s plus-minus 5%.” Griva was joined by Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin, who said, “We have trust in our ties,” although it is a “challenging situation” for New Delhi. “We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure,” he added. Also Read: What Russian diplomat said on India's relations with Pakistan and China amid Trump's tariff war US accused India of funding Ukraine war The US has accused India of funding the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil and imposed 50 per cent tariffs on New Delhi for buying oil from Russia. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt even said that Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on India was aimed at indirectly pressuring Russia to end its war in Ukraine. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had said that India acts as a global clearinghouse for Russian oil, converting embargoed crude into high-value exports while giving Moscow the dollars it needs. Also Read: 'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome India condemned US tariffs India has refused to cower down and has called out the West's duplicity and double standards by presenting hard facts. India also condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” In its rebuttal, the Ministry of External Affairs said the US “actively encouraged” India’s oil imports from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. The MEA said India’s oil trade with Russia was a result of the global market situation, while the EU and US were engaging with Russia in trade that was “not even a vital national compulsion”. New Delhi also reiterated its priority of energy security and choice of trade between partners as a sovereign nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that New Delhi would not back down in the face of economic pressure. Also Read: Russia pushes back against US 'sanctions' against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising force Moscow lauds India for standing its ground on trade Moscow has lauded India for standing its ground on trade partners and asserting its freedom of choice against American bullying. Ambassador Babushkin said he doesn’t see American tariffs sabotaging the India-Russia oil trade. “Russia has a special mechanism to continue crude oil supplies to India. We are committed to sit with India to address these problems and remove them,” he said on Wednesday. Russian trade official Griva added that there was a “mechanism” to address shipping and insurance-related issues. He said Russia provided about 40% of India’s oil needs, which came at around 5% discount per barrel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed The US earlier threatened sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on countries that buy its oil if no moves are made to end the war in Ukraine. China and India are the top two buyers of Russian oil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen as India condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Russia offers India 5% discount on crude oil to help tide over Trump tariffs

The Nepal Government on Wednesday (August 20) reaffirmed &nbsp;Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani lying east of the Mahakali River as an integral part of Nepal, in response to the India-China Lipulekh trade agreement.&nbsp;The government’s position on Lipulekh comes after the latest agreement between India and China to reopen border trade through Lipulekh during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s official visit to India earlier this week. In a statement, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry asserted that the country’s Constitution clearly enshrines Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani as part of Nepal’s official map.&nbsp;“The Government of Nepal has consistently urged the Government of India not to carry out activities such as road construction/expansion or border trade in that area. It has also duly informed the friendly neighbor, China, that this area falls within Nepali territory,” the Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;The boundary issue has remained a longstanding irritant in India-Nepal ties. This development is likely to reignite the dispute between the two nations. Nepal says it is committed to resolving the issues with its friendly neighbour India on the basis of evidence.&nbsp;“Guided by the spirit of the close and friendly relations between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains committed to resolving the boundary issues between the two countries through diplomatic means, on the basis of historical treaties and agreements, facts, maps, and evidence,” the statement added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian External Affairs Ministry reacted to Nepal’s statement. On territorial claims, India reiterated that they are unjustified and not backed by historical facts, stressing that unilateral expansion is unacceptable.&nbsp;“Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear. Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh pass had commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades. This trade had been disrupted in recent years due to Covid and other developments, and both sides have now agreed to resume it,” the Indian statement read.&nbsp;However, both nations continue to uphold bilateral ties, deepen trade cooperation, and pursue mutual interests. This also comes ahead of Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's scheduled visit to India in September. He will be holding bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Indian External Affairs Ministry reacted to Nepali statement. On territorial claims, India reiterated that they are unjustified and not backed by historical facts, stressing that unilateral expansion is unacceptable.

The Nepal Government on Wednesday (August 20) reaffirmed Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani lying east of the Mahakali River as an integral part of Nepal, in response to the India-China Lipulekh trade agreement. The government’s position on Lipulekh comes after the latest agreement between India and China to reopen border trade through Lipulekh during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s official visit to India earlier this week. In a statement, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry asserted that the country’s Constitution clearly enshrines Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani as part of Nepal’s official map. “The Government of Nepal has consistently urged the Government of India not to carry out activities such as road construction/expansion or border trade in that area. It has also duly informed the friendly neighbor, China, that this area falls within Nepali territory,” the Ministry said in a statement. The boundary issue has remained a longstanding irritant in India-Nepal ties. This development is likely to reignite the dispute between the two nations. Nepal says it is committed to resolving the issues with its friendly neighbour India on the basis of evidence. “Guided by the spirit of the close and friendly relations between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains committed to resolving the boundary issues between the two countries through diplomatic means, on the basis of historical treaties and agreements, facts, maps, and evidence,” the statement added. Meanwhile, the Indian External Affairs Ministry reacted to Nepal’s statement. On territorial claims, India reiterated that they are unjustified and not backed by historical facts, stressing that unilateral expansion is unacceptable. “Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear. Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh pass had commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades. This trade had been disrupted in recent years due to Covid and other developments, and both sides have now agreed to resume it,” the Indian statement read. However, both nations continue to uphold bilateral ties, deepen trade cooperation, and pursue mutual interests. This also comes ahead of Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's scheduled visit to India in September. He will be holding bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Ministry reacted to Nepal’s statement. On territorial claims, India reiterated that they are unjustified and not backed by historical facts, stressing that unilateral expansion is unacceptable.

'Not grounded in historical facts': India dismisses Nepal's objection to India-China deal over Lipulekh border

Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar on Wednesday (Aug 20) highlighted a major trade imbalance with Russia, which has increased by nine times, during his opening remarks at the 26th Session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) in Moscow. Jaishankar said that while the bilateral trade between the two nations has increased, this issue needs to be addressed “urgently”.The foreign minister said that the trade has increased more than fivefold from $13 billion in 2021 to $68 billion in 2024-25. However, the trade imbalance has increased from $6.6 billion to $58.9 billion.<h2>Trade imbalance increased nine times</h2>“Over the last four years, Excellency, our bilateral trade in goods has increased, as you have noted, more than five-fold from USD 13 billion in 2021 to USD 68 billion in 2024-25 and it continues to grow,” he said.Jaishankar added, “However, a major trade imbalance has accompanied the growth; it has increased from USD 6.6 billion to USD 58.9 billion, which is about nine times. So we need to address that urgently.”<h2>Agenda for IRIGC-TEC</h2>He further talked about some of the salient features of the agenda that will be discussed between the two countries during his visit. The key elements include tariff, non-tariff barriers, enhancing logistics, effective payment mechanisms, and promoting connectivity through the International North-South Transport Corridor, the Northern Sea Route and the Chennai-Vladivostok Corridor.“They will not only help to address the imbalance and grow our trade, but also hasten the timely achievement of our revised trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030,” he said.<h2>Visit comes amid Trump’s tariff threats</h2>Jaishankar’s visit comes amid recent tariff threats by US President Donald Trump, who doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent, citing the purchase of Russian oil amid the war in Ukraine. Initially, Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, but further imposed an additional 25 per cent duties on New Delhi’s Russian oil purchase.

Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar flagged that trade imbalance between India and Russia has increased by nine times. He adde that the issue needs to be addressed urgently.

Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar on Wednesday (Aug 20) highlighted a major trade imbalance with Russia, which has increased by nine times, during his opening remarks at the 26th Session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) in Moscow. Jaishankar said that while the bilateral trade between the two nations has increased, this issue needs to be addressed “urgently”. The foreign minister said that the trade has increased more than fivefold from $13 billion in 2021 to $68 billion in 2024-25. However, the trade imbalance has increased from $6.6 billion to $58.9 billion. Trade imbalance increased nine times “Over the last four years, Excellency, our bilateral trade in goods has increased, as you have noted, more than five-fold from USD 13 billion in 2021 to USD 68 billion in 2024-25 and it continues to grow,” he said. Jaishankar added, “However, a major trade imbalance has accompanied the growth; it has increased from USD 6.6 billion to USD 58.9 billion, which is about nine times. So we need to address that urgently.” Agenda for IRIGC-TEC He further talked about some of the salient features of the agenda that will be discussed between the two countries during his visit. The key elements include tariff, non-tariff barriers, enhancing logistics, effective payment mechanisms, and promoting connectivity through the International North-South Transport Corridor, the Northern Sea Route and the Chennai-Vladivostok Corridor. “They will not only help to address the imbalance and grow our trade, but also hasten the timely achievement of our revised trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030,” he said. Visit comes amid Trump’s tariff threats Jaishankar’s visit comes amid recent tariff threats by US President Donald Trump, who doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent, citing the purchase of Russian oil amid the war in Ukraine. Initially, Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, but further imposed an additional 25 per cent duties on New Delhi’s Russian oil purchase.

Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar flagged that the trade imbalance between India and Russia has increased by nine times. He added that the issue needs to be addressed urgently.

India-Russia trade imbalance soared nine times: Indian EAM Jaishankar says need to address issue ‘urgently’

US President Donald Trump wants a policymaker at the Federal Reserve to resign. The American president demanded the resignation of Lisa Cook on Wednesday (August 20), alleging that she committed mortgage fraud. In a letter dated August 15, Federal Housing Finance Agency director Bill Pulte urged the Justice Department to investigate a pair of mortgages taken out in recent years by the official.&nbsp;In response, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Cook must resign, now!!!"&nbsp;Pulte, who has been a prominent Trump ally, has criticised the Fed and its leader, Chair Jerome Powell, multiple times for not lowering the mortgage rates. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-nuclear-talks-still-in-limbo-tehran-says-point-of-maturity-not-reached-with-washington-yet-1755702976855">US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet</a>&nbsp;He also called for closer scrutiny of the central bank’s costly refurbishment of its Washington headquarters. “She needs to explain herself, but it’s all there in black and white,” Pulte said in a phone interview with CNBC on Wednesday, adding, “I think she needs to resign quickly.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-ukraine-peace-gambit-from-nobel-dreams-to-strategic-reality-1755698513869">Trump's Ukraine peace gambit: From Nobel dreams to strategic reality</a>&nbsp;The American president is demanding that the Fed lower their rates and continues to bash Powell with the moniker “Too Late."&nbsp;In the letter, which Pulte posted on social media, he alleged that Cook, a Biden appointee, “falsified bank documents and property records to acquire more favorable loan terms, potentially committing mortgage fraud under the criminal statute.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/1-400-year-old-plaque-upends-long-held-beliefs-about-christianity-in-the-7th-and-8th-centuries-1755687563510">1,400-year-old plaque upends long-held belief about Christianity in the 7th and 8th centuries</a>&nbsp;The Trump ally was referring to a mortgage that Cook took out in June 2021 to purchase a property in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She later allegedly took out another mortgage in Georgia two weeks later. Cook’s Georgia home was later listed as a rental, according to Pulte.

Donald Trump has demanded the resignation of a Federal Reserve official, alleging that she had committed mortgage fraud. This came after the American president demanded that the Fed lower its rates.

US President Donald Trump wants a policymaker at the Federal Reserve to resign. The American president demanded the resignation of Lisa Cook on Wednesday (August 20), alleging that she committed mortgage fraud. In a letter dated August 15, Federal Housing Finance Agency director Bill Pulte urged the Justice Department to investigate a pair of mortgages taken out in recent years by the official. In response, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Cook must resign, now!!!" Pulte, who has been a prominent Trump ally, has criticised the Fed and its leader, Chair Jerome Powell, multiple times for not lowering the mortgage rates. Also read: US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet He also called for closer scrutiny of the central bank’s costly refurbishment of its Washington headquarters. “She needs to explain herself, but it’s all there in black and white,” Pulte said in a phone interview with CNBC on Wednesday, adding, “I think she needs to resign quickly.” Also read: Trump's Ukraine peace gambit: From Nobel dreams to strategic reality The American president is demanding that the Fed lower their rates and continues to bash Powell with the moniker “Too Late." In the letter, which Pulte posted on social media, he alleged that Cook, a Biden appointee, “falsified bank documents and property records to acquire more favorable loan terms, potentially committing mortgage fraud under the criminal statute.” Also read: 1,400-year-old plaque upends long-held belief about Christianity in the 7th and 8th centuries The Trump ally was referring to a mortgage that Cook took out in June 2021 to purchase a property in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She later allegedly took out another mortgage in Georgia two weeks later. Cook’s Georgia home was later listed as a rental, according to Pulte.

Donald Trump has demanded the resignation of a Federal Reserve official, alleging that she had committed mortgage fraud. This came after the American president demanded that the Fed lower its rates.

'Must resign, NOW!': Why Trump wants this federal official out? Know here

Poland's foreign ministry on Wednesday (August 20) reacted to the drone that exploded in its territory earlier today, claiming that it was launched from Russia. Foreign ministry spokesperson Pawel Wronski stressed that Russia generally does not admit that anything produced by it falls onto our territory.&nbsp;Dariusz Malinowski, Deputy Commander of Armed Forces Operational Command, said that they believe the drone that exploded in Poland was launched from Russia.&nbsp;He added, "We don’t have 100% percent certainty that it was … this specific drone, although we do know the locations from which these types of drones are launched, and they are located on Russian territory.”&nbsp;However, he said that it isn't clear whether it was a deliberate violation of Poland's airspace or a malfunction of a drone targeting Ukraine. Malinowski further revealed that it was a military drone propelled by a Chinese-produced engine.<h2>‘Russia will never admit’</h2>Polish Deputy PM Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said that Russia will never admit to this.&nbsp;“I’ll say one thing that is certain: Russia will never admit to this. Just as it hasn’t admitted to any of the eight incidents in Moldova, three incidents in Romania, three in Lithuania, two in Latvia, or the one drone incident in Bulgaria,” he said.<h2>Why is it important?</h2>While the foreign minister spokesperson stressed that in recent talks, there was an argument that Russia's war is not just a war taking place on the periphery of Europe, but a "situation that threatens not only Ukraine, but also Europe, including Nato states".&nbsp;"So here we have visible proof that Poland’s airspace is also endangered by this war, that something could happen, something could explode, it is unsafe, people could die, and the security of an allied state of the North Atlantic Alliance is at risk," he said.&nbsp;

UntitleAfter a drone exploded in Poland's territory, the Polish authorities have accused Russia behind the explosion. The foreign ministry said that it isn't clear whether it was a deliberate violation of Poland's airspace or a malfunction of a drone targeting Ukraine.d Summary

Poland's foreign ministry on Wednesday (August 20) reacted to the drone that exploded in its territory earlier today, claiming that it was launched from Russia. Foreign ministry spokesperson Pawel Wronski stressed that Russia generally does not admit that anything produced by it falls onto our territory. Dariusz Malinowski, Deputy Commander of Armed Forces Operational Command, said that they believe the drone that exploded in Poland was launched from Russia. He added, "We don’t have 100% percent certainty that it was … this specific drone, although we do know the locations from which these types of drones are launched, and they are located on Russian territory.” However, he said that it isn't clear whether it was a deliberate violation of Poland's airspace or a malfunction of a drone targeting Ukraine. Malinowski further revealed that it was a military drone propelled by a Chinese-produced engine. ‘Russia will never admit’ Polish Deputy PM Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said that Russia will never admit to this. “I’ll say one thing that is certain: Russia will never admit to this. Just as it hasn’t admitted to any of the eight incidents in Moldova, three incidents in Romania, three in Lithuania, two in Latvia, or the one drone incident in Bulgaria,” he said. Why is it important? While the foreign minister spokesperson stressed that in recent talks, there was an argument that Russia's war is not just a war taking place on the periphery of Europe, but a "situation that threatens not only Ukraine, but also Europe, including Nato states". "So here we have visible proof that Poland’s airspace is also endangered by this war, that something could happen, something could explode, it is unsafe, people could die, and the security of an allied state of the North Atlantic Alliance is at risk," he said.

After a drone exploded in Poland's territory, the Polish authorities have accused Russia behind the explosion. The foreign ministry said that it isn't clear whether it was a deliberate violation of Poland's airspace or a malfunction of a drone targeting Ukraine.

Russia's Shahed drone hits Poland? Warsaw accuses Moscow of 'provoking Nato countries' after overnight drone explosion

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (August 20) said that they have not reached the point where "effective" nuclear talks can take place, signalling that the long-overdue US-Iran nuclear talks are still a distant dream.Araghchi further stressed that every negotiation has a specific time called "negotiation maturity".&nbsp;“Negotiations with the US must be held at their own time. Every negotiation has a specific time called ‘negotiation maturity,’ and it must reach that maturity in order to be held,” the Iranian foreign minister said.&nbsp;“In my opinion, we have not yet reached the point of maturity where effective negotiations with the US can take place,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-under-a-ceasefire-top-iranian-official-cautions-conflict-with-israel-could-resume-1755583488152">Also read: 'Not under a ceasefire': Top Iranian official cautions conflict with Israel could resume</a><h2>Iran cannot completely end IAEA cooperation</h2>Weeks after Iran formally suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the foreign minister today said Tehran cannot "completely end" its dealings with the watchdog over the Israeli war.&nbsp;During an interview with IRNA, Araghchi said that any return of IAEA inspectors to Iranian nuclear sites would depend on a decision to the country's Supreme National Security Council.&nbsp;“We cannot completely end cooperation with the agency,” he said, adding that the replacement of “fuel at the Bushehr nuclear power plant” must take place in the coming weeks and will require the “presence of inspectors” from the agency.&nbsp;“The return of inspectors will be possible based on the parliament's law, that is, with the approval of the Supreme National Security Council,” Araghchi said.&nbsp;Earlier this month, an IAEA official visited Iran and held talks with Iranian officials, marking the first such encounter since Iran suspended cooperation with the agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH | Israel-Iran War: Iran Warns Israel, Releases IDF Soldiers' Data<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754233157624/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754233157624/embed</a>&nbsp;

Iranian foreign minister on Wednesday said that Tehran has not reached yet the point of maturity where the effective negotiations can take place, with the US, referring to the overdue nuclear talks. 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (August 20) said that they have not reached the point where "effective" nuclear talks can take place, signalling that the long-overdue US-Iran nuclear talks are still a distant dream. Araghchi further stressed that every negotiation has a specific time called "negotiation maturity". “Negotiations with the US must be held at their own time. Every negotiation has a specific time called ‘negotiation maturity,’ and it must reach that maturity in order to be held,” the Iranian foreign minister said. “In my opinion, we have not yet reached the point of maturity where effective negotiations with the US can take place,” he added. Also read: 'Not under a ceasefire': Top Iranian official cautions conflict with Israel could resume Iran cannot completely end IAEA cooperation Weeks after Iran formally suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the foreign minister today said Tehran cannot "completely end" its dealings with the watchdog over the Israeli war. During an interview with IRNA, Araghchi said that any return of IAEA inspectors to Iranian nuclear sites would depend on a decision to the country's Supreme National Security Council. “We cannot completely end cooperation with the agency,” he said, adding that the replacement of “fuel at the Bushehr nuclear power plant” must take place in the coming weeks and will require the “presence of inspectors” from the agency. “The return of inspectors will be possible based on the parliament's law, that is, with the approval of the Supreme National Security Council,” Araghchi said. Earlier this month, an IAEA official visited Iran and held talks with Iranian officials, marking the first such encounter since Iran suspended cooperation with the agency. WATCH | Israel-Iran War: Iran Warns Israel, Releases IDF Soldiers' Data https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-iran-warns-israel-releases-idf-soldiers-data-1754233157624/embed

Iranian foreign minister on Wednesday said that Tehran has not reached yet the point of maturity where the effective negotiations can take place, with the US, referring to the overdue nuclear talks.&nbsp;

US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet

Israel on Wednesday (Aug 18) approved a plan for the takeover of Gaza City and authorised calling up 60,000 reservists for the expanded military operations. Following this, world leaders have urged for de-escalation. The development comes amid mounting pressure on Hamas and calls by mediators for a ceasefire following their latest proposal. The plan for the major operation was approved by Defence Minister Israel Katz. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has maintained its firm stance, calling for the release of all hostages in any agreement.The framework approved by Hamas involves an initial 60-day truce, hostage release, the freeing of Palestinian prisoners, and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to Israeli media, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet called any security cabinet meeting to discuss the truce proposal.<h2>‘Catastrophic’ situation in Gaza</h2>Mustafa Qazzaat, head of the emergency committee in the Gaza municipality, on Wednesday (Aug 20) described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic”. He said that “large numbers” of people were fleeing their homes, with the majority forced “on the roads and streets without shelter.”<h2>‘Precise and targeted operation’</h2>An Israeli military official told media on Wednesday that the latest phase in the escalation of conflict with Hamas would involve a “a gradual precise and targeted operation in and around Gaza City”. The official added that the plan includes some areas where the Israeli forces had previously not been present.The Israeli military had already started expanding operations in areas of Zeitoun and Jabalia, the official said.<h2>Calls for de-escalation</h2>Germany on Wednesday said it “rejects the escalation” of Israel’s plan to take over Gaza City. Spokesman Steffen Meyer told reporters that Berlin finds it “increasingly difficult to understand how these actions will lead to the freeing of all the hostages, or to a ceasefire.”French President Emmanuel Macron warned that Israel’s “military offensive” in Gaza City “can only lead to a complete disaster for both peoples.” He added that it “will drag the region into a permanent war”, reiterating calls for an “international stabilisation mission”.

Israel has approved a plan for Gaza City ‘takeover’ on Wednesday, calling-up 60,000 reservists as it moves to expand military operations in the territory. Meanwhile, mediators and global powers have urged to de-escalate the situation.

Israel on Wednesday (Aug 18) approved a plan for the takeover of Gaza City and authorised calling up 60,000 reservists for the expanded military operations. Following this, world leaders have urged for de-escalation. The development comes amid mounting pressure on Hamas and calls by mediators for a ceasefire following their latest proposal. The plan for the major operation was approved by Defence Minister Israel Katz. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has maintained its firm stance, calling for the release of all hostages in any agreement. The framework approved by Hamas involves an initial 60-day truce, hostage release, the freeing of Palestinian prisoners, and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to Israeli media, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet called any security cabinet meeting to discuss the truce proposal. ‘Catastrophic’ situation in Gaza Mustafa Qazzaat, head of the emergency committee in the Gaza municipality, on Wednesday (Aug 20) described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic”. He said that “large numbers” of people were fleeing their homes, with the majority forced “on the roads and streets without shelter.” ‘Precise and targeted operation’ An Israeli military official told media on Wednesday that the latest phase in the escalation of conflict with Hamas would involve a “a gradual precise and targeted operation in and around Gaza City”. The official added that the plan includes some areas where the Israeli forces had previously not been present. The Israeli military had already started expanding operations in areas of Zeitoun and Jabalia, the official said. Calls for de-escalation Germany on Wednesday said it “rejects the escalation” of Israel’s plan to take over Gaza City. Spokesman Steffen Meyer told reporters that Berlin finds it “increasingly difficult to understand how these actions will lead to the freeing of all the hostages, or to a ceasefire.” French President Emmanuel Macron warned that Israel’s “military offensive” in Gaza City “can only lead to a complete disaster for both peoples.” He added that it “will drag the region into a permanent war”, reiterating calls for an “international stabilisation mission”.

Israel has approved a plan for Gaza City ‘takeover’ on Wednesday, calling-up 60,000 reservists as it moves to expand military operations in the territory. Meanwhile, mediators and global powers have urged to de-escalate the situation.

‘Will drag region into permanent war’: World reacts as Israel approves Gaza City ‘takeover’ plan, calls up 60,000 reservists

India on Wednesday rejected the allegations made by Bangladesh’s interim government in a press statement that anti-Bangladesh activities were being carried out from Indian territory by members of the Awami League. In response to media queries on the Press Statement issued by the interim government of Bangladesh, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Wednesday in a statement that New Delhi was “not aware of any anti-Bangladesh activities by purported members of the Awami League in India or of any action that is contrary to Indian law”.&nbsp;Awami League is the party of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India, living in exile, after being ousted by student-led protests against her government last year.&nbsp;“The Government does not allow political activities against other countries to be carried out from Indian soil. The Press Statement by the Interim Government of Bangladesh is thus misplaced,” Jaiswal said in the statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/row-breaks-out-over-bangladesh-govt-s-order-to-remove-president-shahabuddin-s-portraits-is-yunus-govt-wiping-out-hasina-s-legacy-1755580607928">Row breaks out over Bangladesh govt's order to remove President Shahabuddin's portraits: Is Yunus govt wiping out Hasina's legacy?</a>&nbsp;India reiterates its expectation that free, fair, and inclusive elections will be held at the earliest in Bangladesh to ascertain the will and mandate of the people, it added.&nbsp;There has been a sharp downturn in India’s relations with Bangladesh after deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka in August last year in the face of a massive anti-government protest.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-meghalaya-bangladesh-border-sealed-in-hunt-for-armed-infiltrators-1755177274210/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-meghalaya-bangladesh-border-sealed-in-hunt-for-armed-infiltrators-1755177274210/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The ties nosedived dramatically after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus failed to contain attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides, there was an increase in engagement between Bangladeshi and Pakistani military officials as Pakistani spy agency ISI’s Director General of Analysis Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar and certain other officials visited Bangladesh after a delegation of Bangladeshi military officials toured Pakistan and held meetings with the three service chiefs.&nbsp;

A sharp downturn was noticed in India’s relations with Bangladesh after deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka in August last year after a massive anti-government protest. The ties nosedived further when the interim Yunus government failed to contain attacks on Hindus. 

India on Wednesday rejected the allegations made by Bangladesh’s interim government in a press statement that anti-Bangladesh activities were being carried out from Indian territory by members of the Awami League. In response to media queries on the Press Statement issued by the interim government of Bangladesh, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Wednesday in a statement that New Delhi was “not aware of any anti-Bangladesh activities by purported members of the Awami League in India or of any action that is contrary to Indian law”. Awami League is the party of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India, living in exile, after being ousted by student-led protests against her government last year. “The Government does not allow political activities against other countries to be carried out from Indian soil. The Press Statement by the Interim Government of Bangladesh is thus misplaced,” Jaiswal said in the statement. Also Read: Row breaks out over Bangladesh govt's order to remove President Shahabuddin's portraits: Is Yunus govt wiping out Hasina's legacy? India reiterates its expectation that free, fair, and inclusive elections will be held at the earliest in Bangladesh to ascertain the will and mandate of the people, it added. There has been a sharp downturn in India’s relations with Bangladesh after deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka in August last year in the face of a massive anti-government protest. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-meghalaya-bangladesh-border-sealed-in-hunt-for-armed-infiltrators-1755177274210/embed The ties nosedived dramatically after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus failed to contain attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh. Besides, there was an increase in engagement between Bangladeshi and Pakistani military officials as Pakistani spy agency ISI’s Director General of Analysis Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar and certain other officials visited Bangladesh after a delegation of Bangladeshi military officials toured Pakistan and held meetings with the three service chiefs.

A sharp downturn was noticed in India’s relations with Bangladesh after deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka in August last year after a massive anti-government protest. The ties nosedived further when the interim Yunus government failed to contain attacks on Hindus.&nbsp;

MEA rejects Dhaka’s charge, says ‘unaware’ of any anti-Bangladesh activities in India

The top 7 weakest currencies in the world in 2025, including the Lebanese Pound, Iranian Rial, and more. Learn why Indonesia’s Rupiah and Uzbekistan’s Som also rank among the lowest-valued currencies.

Top 7 Weakest Currencies in the World 2025 – From Lebanon to Uzbekistan

In the span of just four days, President Donald Trump has orchestrated a dramatic diplomatic pivot that has transformed the Ukraine peace process from a distant hope into an active negotiation. What began as Trump's reversal from demanding a ceasefire to Putin's preferred "peace agreement" approach has evolved into something far more sophisticated—and potentially more dangerous.<h2>The Alaska awakening</h2>Trump's August 15th summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska marked the first direct negotiations at this level "for a long time," according to the Russian leader. But what emerged from those talks wasn't capitulation—it was calculation. After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday and an unprecedented gathering of European leaders at the White House, Trump announced plans for a direct Putin-Zelenskyy meeting, followed by trilateral talks.This isn't the impulsive dealmaking critics feared. It's a methodical three-step strategy that leverages America's unique position as the only power capable of bringing both warring parties to the table.<h2>The security guarantee revolution</h2>The real breakthrough isn't territorial—it's defensive. Trump secured Putin's agreement that Russia would accept "robust security guarantees" for Ukraine, with European leaders describing this as "Article 5-like" protections similar to NATO's collective defense provision. Ukrainian officials expect these guarantees to be "formalized on paper within the next week to 10 days," including a massive Ukrainian purchase of American weapons worth approximately $90 billion.This represents a fundamental shift from previous peace efforts. Unlike the failed Minsk agreements or the hollow Budapest Memorandum, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is now leading a working group with European allies to draft concrete security proposals. As NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Trump: "The fact that you have said that I'm willing to participate in the security guarantees is a big step. It's really a breakthrough."<h2>Putin's calculated gamble</h2>Critics who claim Trump was manipulated in Alaska misunderstand Putin's position. The Russian leader demanded maximalist territorial concessions, including all of the Donetsk region, and at one point "seemed so firm on his demand that Trump was ready to walk away". Putin's willingness to accept security guarantees suggests he recognises that military conquest has reached its limits.With 20,000 Russian soldiers killed in July alone, Moscow faces an unsustainable attrition rate. Putin's agreement to eventual negotiations indicates he understands that Ukrainian officials are correct when they say "Russia will not take Donbas—not in months, not in years" due to Ukraine's heavily fortified defensive positions.<h2>Europe's United Front</h2>The unprecedented gathering of seven European leaders—including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz—at the White House demonstrated unprecedented unity. Starmer described "real progress" and "material outcomes on security guarantees," while Macron emphasised the significance of the US commitment to developing security plans.This European solidarity provides crucial leverage. Trump ruled out U.S. ground troops but left the door open for other support, acknowledging that "European countries would form the first line of defense" while "we'll be involved".<h2>The strategic imperative</h2>As Trump administration officials emphasised on Sunday shows, "the only way to end this war is to get the Russians to agree—as well as the Ukrainians—but the Russians to agree to a peace deal". The reality is stark: "In order for there to be a peace deal... both sides are going to have to give up something in order to get to the table."But this isn't appeasement—it's strategic realism backed by deterrent force. The proposed security framework would create the first credible guarantee against future Russian aggression since the Cold War ended.<h2>The Nobel question reframed</h2>Rather than pursuing peace for legacy purposes, Trump appears to be leveraging his unique relationship with Putin to achieve what his predecessors could not: a settlement that both sides can accept and the West can enforce. Trump's whispered comment to Macron—"I think [Putin] wants to make a deal for me, you understand that? As crazy as it sounds"—suggests he understands the personal dynamics at play.<h2>The bottom line</h2>Ukraine's offer to purchase $90 billion in U.S. weapons as part of security guarantees demonstrates this isn't about abandoning Kyiv—it's about creating a sustainable deterrent framework. As Zelenskyy noted after his White House meetings: "We had constructive, specific meeting… we are happy we have such big unity today."Trump's approach carries enormous risks. Territorial concessions could reward aggression and encourage future conflicts. But the alternative—indefinite warfare with mounting casualties—offers no guarantee of better outcomes.The next phase will determine whether Trump's diplomatic gambit produces the "lasting peace" he promises or becomes another chapter in the long history of failed negotiations with Moscow. With Putin-Zelenskyy talks now "underway" according to the White House, we'll know soon enough whether this represents genuine breakthrough or dangerous miscalculation.The stakes couldn't be higher—for Ukraine, for Europe, and for Trump's presidency. History will judge whether this moment marks the beginning of sustainable peace or the prelude to an even more devastating conflict.

How recent White House Summits signal a fundamental shift in America's approach to ending Europe's bloodiest conflict

In the span of just four days, President Donald Trump has orchestrated a dramatic diplomatic pivot that has transformed the Ukraine peace process from a distant hope into an active negotiation. What began as Trump's reversal from demanding a ceasefire to Putin's preferred "peace agreement" approach has evolved into something far more sophisticated—and potentially more dangerous. The Alaska awakening Trump's August 15th summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska marked the first direct negotiations at this level "for a long time," according to the Russian leader. But what emerged from those talks wasn't capitulation—it was calculation. After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday and an unprecedented gathering of European leaders at the White House, Trump announced plans for a direct Putin-Zelenskyy meeting, followed by trilateral talks. This isn't the impulsive dealmaking critics feared. It's a methodical three-step strategy that leverages America's unique position as the only power capable of bringing both warring parties to the table. The security guarantee revolution The real breakthrough isn't territorial—it's defensive. Trump secured Putin's agreement that Russia would accept "robust security guarantees" for Ukraine, with European leaders describing this as "Article 5-like" protections similar to NATO's collective defense provision. Ukrainian officials expect these guarantees to be "formalized on paper within the next week to 10 days," including a massive Ukrainian purchase of American weapons worth approximately $90 billion. This represents a fundamental shift from previous peace efforts. Unlike the failed Minsk agreements or the hollow Budapest Memorandum, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is now leading a working group with European allies to draft concrete security proposals. As NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Trump: "The fact that you have said that I'm willing to participate in the security guarantees is a big step. It's really a breakthrough." Putin's calculated gamble Critics who claim Trump was manipulated in Alaska misunderstand Putin's position. The Russian leader demanded maximalist territorial concessions, including all of the Donetsk region, and at one point "seemed so firm on his demand that Trump was ready to walk away". Putin's willingness to accept security guarantees suggests he recognises that military conquest has reached its limits. With 20,000 Russian soldiers killed in July alone, Moscow faces an unsustainable attrition rate. Putin's agreement to eventual negotiations indicates he understands that Ukrainian officials are correct when they say "Russia will not take Donbas—not in months, not in years" due to Ukraine's heavily fortified defensive positions. Europe's United Front The unprecedented gathering of seven European leaders—including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz—at the White House demonstrated unprecedented unity. Starmer described "real progress" and "material outcomes on security guarantees," while Macron emphasised the significance of the US commitment to developing security plans. This European solidarity provides crucial leverage. Trump ruled out U.S. ground troops but left the door open for other support, acknowledging that "European countries would form the first line of defense" while "we'll be involved". The strategic imperative As Trump administration officials emphasised on Sunday shows, "the only way to end this war is to get the Russians to agree—as well as the Ukrainians—but the Russians to agree to a peace deal". The reality is stark: "In order for there to be a peace deal... both sides are going to have to give up something in order to get to the table." But this isn't appeasement—it's strategic realism backed by deterrent force. The proposed security framework would create the first credible guarantee against future Russian aggression since the Cold War ended. The Nobel question reframed Rather than pursuing peace for legacy purposes, Trump appears to be leveraging his unique relationship with Putin to achieve what his predecessors could not: a settlement that both sides can accept and the West can enforce. Trump's whispered comment to Macron—"I think [Putin] wants to make a deal for me, you understand that? As crazy as it sounds"—suggests he understands the personal dynamics at play. The bottom line Ukraine's offer to purchase $90 billion in U.S. weapons as part of security guarantees demonstrates this isn't about abandoning Kyiv—it's about creating a sustainable deterrent framework. As Zelenskyy noted after his White House meetings: "We had constructive, specific meeting… we are happy we have such big unity today." Trump's approach carries enormous risks. Territorial concessions could reward aggression and encourage future conflicts. But the alternative—indefinite warfare with mounting casualties—offers no guarantee of better outcomes. The next phase will determine whether Trump's diplomatic gambit produces the "lasting peace" he promises or becomes another chapter in the long history of failed negotiations with Moscow. With Putin-Zelenskyy talks now "underway" according to the White House, we'll know soon enough whether this represents genuine breakthrough or dangerous miscalculation. The stakes couldn't be higher—for Ukraine, for Europe, and for Trump's presidency. History will judge whether this moment marks the beginning of sustainable peace or the prelude to an even more devastating conflict.

How recent White House Summits signal a fundamental shift in America's approach to ending Europe's bloodiest conflict

Trump's Ukraine peace gambit: From Nobel dreams to strategic reality

Three 18-year-old female students from the Stroganov Russian State University of Art and Industry in Moscow have been sentenced to 11 months of ‘corrective labour’ after they filmed themselves twerking in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and posted the video on TikTok.&nbsp;The three women were convicted of ‘petty hooliganism’, accused of violating the public order and insulting the public sentiment. Traditional values group Sorok Sorokov have called them an ‘infection’ and they will multiply if ‘left unchecked’.&nbsp;They were also expelled from the university. Vladimir Putin's Russia is trying to promote ‘traditional values’ and has himself attended the cathedral on several occasions. This is part of the broader crackdown under the current Russian government, emphasising conservative, traditional values, where self-expression is considered indecent, irrelevant and non-conforming to the state-endorsed morality.&nbsp;On his visit to Alaska, Putin gifted two Russian Orthodox icons to Archbishop Alexi of the Church of Alaska, where once Tsarist missionaries brought in Catholicism, and in return, Alexi gifted the Russian President an icon of Saint Herman.&nbsp;Similar crackdowns have targeted models who posted LGBTQ+ related content, like an OnlyFans model in Red Square and a couple kissing in public, resulting in public detentions, forced apologies and censorship. &nbsp;

In mid-August, three 18-year-old female students were arrested and sent to the 'Gulag' for making dancing videos in front of the Moscow Cathedral, outlining a broader pattern of crackdown on self-expression and imposing conservative values.

Three 18-year-old female students from the Stroganov Russian State University of Art and Industry in Moscow have been sentenced to 11 months of ‘corrective labour’ after they filmed themselves twerking in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and posted the video on TikTok. The three women were convicted of ‘petty hooliganism’, accused of violating the public order and insulting the public sentiment. Traditional values group Sorok Sorokov have called them an ‘infection’ and they will multiply if ‘left unchecked’. They were also expelled from the university. Vladimir Putin's Russia is trying to promote ‘traditional values’ and has himself attended the cathedral on several occasions. This is part of the broader crackdown under the current Russian government, emphasising conservative, traditional values, where self-expression is considered indecent, irrelevant and non-conforming to the state-endorsed morality. On his visit to Alaska, Putin gifted two Russian Orthodox icons to Archbishop Alexi of the Church of Alaska, where once Tsarist missionaries brought in Catholicism, and in return, Alexi gifted the Russian President an icon of Saint Herman. Similar crackdowns have targeted models who posted LGBTQ+ related content, like an OnlyFans model in Red Square and a couple kissing in public, resulting in public detentions, forced apologies and censorship.

In mid-August, three 18-year-old female students were arrested and sent to the 'Gulag' for making dancing videos in front of the Moscow Cathedral, outlining a broader pattern of crackdown on self-expression and imposing conservative values.

Three Russian students jailed for twerking in front of Moscow Cathedral, nearly a year of ‘corrective labour’ in 'Gulag'

The Union Cabinet has passed the Online Gaming Bill 2025, to make sweeping legislation to ban all real money games, ie any online game, whether based on skill or chance, where users deposit money with expectations for monetary gain. This is the first centralised legal framework in the country to govern online gaming, with the rising cases of financial fraud, money laundering and celebrity advertisement, as well as potential for possible terror financing.&nbsp;While real money games are not exactly gambling, the distinction has been blurred in India due to the absence of a centralised legal framework. Usually, the distinction is clear, even though both involve monetary transactions; gambling is based on chance, and real money games can include cases of skill-based games. The government has recognised eSports as a legitimate competitive sport and excludes it from the online money gaming ambit, thus reflecting willingness for a potential licensing regime in future.&nbsp;<h2>Here are five other countries that are dealing with Online Gambling differently&nbsp;</h2>China: Online gambling is banned in China. But some state-run lottery, welfare lotteries and sports gambling is allowed. According to Article 303 of the Chinese criminal code, individuals convicted are subjected to harsh punishment including fines, imprisonment and the death penalty. But in Macau and Hong Kong, gambling, especially online gambling, is regulated.&nbsp;United States: In the US, online gambling is a complex and evolving landscape. It varies from state to state and is a patchwork of state and federal laws. While some states have banned it, in some states like New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, online gaming is legal and regulated. There are acts like the Wire Act of 196, which prohibits interstate betting via wired communication with varied interpretations among the Justice Department. Other Federal laws, such as the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which bans businesses from knowingly accepting payments connected to unlawful online bets. So there is a license system in place for online casinos, sports betting, online poker, and lotteries are state-run.England: In England, online gambling is centralised and is managed by a regulator Gambling Commission, with three types of available licenses: operating licenses, personal licenses, and premises licenses. The licenses outline details of advertising, customer protection, and anti-money laundering responsibilities of the operator.Russia: Russia has banned all online casinos and poker sites. The only exception is online sports betting, which is legal through Russian licensed bookmakers and is registered and regulated under the Federal Tax.Brazil: Brazil has legalised online gaming and started to regulate sports betting and online casino games in 2023. It was initially legalised in 2018 and was unregulated. An operator wishing to operate online gambling has to obtain a license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) under the Ministry of Finance.&nbsp;

The Union Cabinet has passed the Online Gaming Bill 2025, introducing India’s first centralised framework to ban all real money games. Here are five other countries: China, the US, England, Russia, and Brazil, which are regulating online gambling differently.

The Union Cabinet has passed the Online Gaming Bill 2025, to make sweeping legislation to ban all real money games, ie any online game, whether based on skill or chance, where users deposit money with expectations for monetary gain. This is the first centralised legal framework in the country to govern online gaming, with the rising cases of financial fraud, money laundering and celebrity advertisement, as well as potential for possible terror financing. While real money games are not exactly gambling, the distinction has been blurred in India due to the absence of a centralised legal framework. Usually, the distinction is clear, even though both involve monetary transactions; gambling is based on chance, and real money games can include cases of skill-based games. The government has recognised eSports as a legitimate competitive sport and excludes it from the online money gaming ambit, thus reflecting willingness for a potential licensing regime in future. Here are five other countries that are dealing with Online Gambling differently China: Online gambling is banned in China. But some state-run lottery, welfare lotteries and sports gambling is allowed. According to Article 303 of the Chinese criminal code, individuals convicted are subjected to harsh punishment including fines, imprisonment and the death penalty. But in Macau and Hong Kong, gambling, especially online gambling, is regulated. United States: In the US, online gambling is a complex and evolving landscape. It varies from state to state and is a patchwork of state and federal laws. While some states have banned it, in some states like New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, online gaming is legal and regulated. There are acts like the Wire Act of 196, which prohibits interstate betting via wired communication with varied interpretations among the Justice Department. Other Federal laws, such as the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which bans businesses from knowingly accepting payments connected to unlawful online bets. So there is a license system in place for online casinos, sports betting, online poker, and lotteries are state-run. England: In England, online gambling is centralised and is managed by a regulator Gambling Commission, with three types of available licenses: operating licenses, personal licenses, and premises licenses. The licenses outline details of advertising, customer protection, and anti-money laundering responsibilities of the operator. Russia: Russia has banned all online casinos and poker sites. The only exception is online sports betting, which is legal through Russian licensed bookmakers and is registered and regulated under the Federal Tax. Brazil: Brazil has legalised online gaming and started to regulate sports betting and online casino games in 2023. It was initially legalised in 2018 and was unregulated. An operator wishing to operate online gambling has to obtain a license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) under the Ministry of Finance.

The Union Cabinet has passed the Online Gaming Bill 2025, introducing India’s first centralised framework to ban all real money games. Here are five other countries: China, the US, England, Russia, and Brazil, which are regulating online gambling differently.

Online Gaming Bill 2025: India to ban online gambling, how are other countries dealing with online gambling?

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday (Aug 20) warned that discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine without involving Russia were a “road to nowhere”. He further slammed the European leaders for making “clumsy attempts” to change US President Donald Trump’s position on Ukraine, accusing the bloc of trying to “aggressively escalate” the situation. He added that the Europeans did not put forth any “constructive” ideas in their recent meeting with Trump.This comes as NATO military chiefs on Wednesday (Aug 20) were set to hold discussions on details of eventual security guarantees for Ukraine amid recent efforts to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pushes-zelensky-putin-for-one-on-one-peace-talks-says-it-ll-be-better-but-will-he-crash-the-meeting-1755656335352">Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting?</a>“The West understands perfectly well that seriously discussing security guarantees without the Russian Federation is a utopia, a road to nowhere,” Lavrov told reporters on Wednesday. “We cannot agree that it is now suggested to solve collective security issues without the Russian Federation”<h2>‘Clumsy attempts’ by Europe</h2>“We have only seen aggressive escalation of the situation and rather clumsy attempts to change the position of the US president,” Lavrov said, referring to the meeting between Trump, European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that happened at the White House on Monday (Aug 18).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-ukraine-peace-deal-would-get-him-to-heaven-yes-you-read-it-right-1755641955305">Trump says Ukraine peace deal would get him to HEAVEN- yes, you read it right</a>“We did not hear any constructive ideas from the Europeans there,” he added.This comes following the recent diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, including the meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15 and Trump’s meeting with Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday (Aug 18).<h2>Putin-Zelensky talks ‘must be prepared ‘meticulously’</h2>Following the discussions, Putin agreed to meet with Zelensky and accept some Western security guarantees for Ukraine.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-us-president-shows-trump-2028-hats-to-european-leaders-amid-russia-ukraine-war-discussion-what-message-was-he-sending-1755658478723">Trump shows 'Trump 2028' hats to European leaders amid Russia-Ukraine war discussion: What message was he sending</a>Lavrov also said that any talks between Putin and Zelensky “must be prepared in the most meticulous way” so the meeting does not lead to a “deterioration” of the situation around the conflict.&nbsp;Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Ukraine’s Sumy, Odesa under heavy drone strikeshttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-pounds-ukraine-s-sumy-odesa-under-heavy-drone-strikes-1755692946461/embed

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday (Aug 20) said that Ukraine’s security guarantees without Moscow were a “road to nowhere”. He also slammed “clumsy attempts” made by European leaders to change US President Donald Trump’s position.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday (Aug 20) warned that discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine without involving Russia were a “road to nowhere”. He further slammed the European leaders for making “clumsy attempts” to change US President Donald Trump’s position on Ukraine, accusing the bloc of trying to “aggressively escalate” the situation. He added that the Europeans did not put forth any “constructive” ideas in their recent meeting with Trump. This comes as NATO military chiefs on Wednesday (Aug 20) were set to hold discussions on details of eventual security guarantees for Ukraine amid recent efforts to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. Also read | Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting? “The West understands perfectly well that seriously discussing security guarantees without the Russian Federation is a utopia, a road to nowhere,” Lavrov told reporters on Wednesday. “We cannot agree that it is now suggested to solve collective security issues without the Russian Federation” ‘Clumsy attempts’ by Europe “We have only seen aggressive escalation of the situation and rather clumsy attempts to change the position of the US president,” Lavrov said, referring to the meeting between Trump, European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that happened at the White House on Monday (Aug 18). Also read | Trump says Ukraine peace deal would get him to HEAVEN- yes, you read it right “We did not hear any constructive ideas from the Europeans there,” he added. This comes following the recent diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, including the meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15 and Trump’s meeting with Zelensky and European leaders at the White House on Monday (Aug 18). Putin-Zelensky talks ‘must be prepared ‘meticulously’ Following the discussions, Putin agreed to meet with Zelensky and accept some Western security guarantees for Ukraine. Also read | Trump shows 'Trump 2028' hats to European leaders amid Russia-Ukraine war discussion: What message was he sending Lavrov also said that any talks between Putin and Zelensky “must be prepared in the most meticulous way” so the meeting does not lead to a “deterioration” of the situation around the conflict. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Ukraine’s Sumy, Odesa under heavy drone strikes https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-pounds-ukraine-s-sumy-odesa-under-heavy-drone-strikes-1755692946461/embed

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday (Aug 20) said that Ukraine’s security guarantees without Moscow were a “road to nowhere”. He also slammed “clumsy attempts” made by European leaders to change US President Donald Trump’s position.

‘Road to nowhere’: Russia slams security discussions with Trump on Ukraine without Moscow

A tragic bus crash in western Afghanistan killed at least 79 people, including 17 children. The bus was carrying Afghan migrants deported from Iran, the BBC reported, citing a Taliban interior ministry spokesperson. Most of the people killed, were on the bus, which was en route to Kabul.The bus was travelling from Iran to the Afghan capital on late Tuesday, when it collided with a motorbike and another vehicle in the western province of Herat near the Iranian border, a senior Afghan government official, Ahmadullah Muttaqi said.“The car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus, fully loaded with passengers,” he said.He added, “The bus also caught fire and the majority of people on the bus died of burn injuries.”"All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told news agency AFP, referring to a town near the Afghanistan–Iran border.According to the Herat police, the accident happened because of the bus driver's "excessive speed and negligence."Muttaqi also said that these Afghan refugees were returning home after spending a long time in Iran, but they could not reach their destination as their bus met with a tragic accident.These Afghan migrants are among hundreds of thousands of Afghans who have returned in the last months from Iran and Pakistan, after the announcement of a crackdown in October 2024, claiming that they were living illegally.Since the 1970s, millions of people have fled Afghanistan for Iran and Pakistan, due to several reasons. The Afghan migrants have complained that in both countries, they have faced systematic discrimination and violence.According to UN human rights officials, over two million people have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan since the start of the year, including more than 1.8 million from Iran and almost 400,000 from Pakistan.However, the authorities in Iran and Pakistan denied that they are specifically targeting Afghans.&nbsp;

In the tragic accident, 17 children died, who were mostly on board the bus as they were returning from Iran. The official said that the car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus. 

A tragic bus crash in western Afghanistan killed at least 79 people, including 17 children. The bus was carrying Afghan migrants deported from Iran, the BBC reported, citing a Taliban interior ministry spokesperson. Most of the people killed, were on the bus, which was en route to Kabul. The bus was travelling from Iran to the Afghan capital on late Tuesday, when it collided with a motorbike and another vehicle in the western province of Herat near the Iranian border, a senior Afghan government official, Ahmadullah Muttaqi said. “The car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus, fully loaded with passengers,” he said. He added, “The bus also caught fire and the majority of people on the bus died of burn injuries.” "All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told news agency AFP, referring to a town near the Afghanistan–Iran border. According to the Herat police, the accident happened because of the bus driver's "excessive speed and negligence." Muttaqi also said that these Afghan refugees were returning home after spending a long time in Iran, but they could not reach their destination as their bus met with a tragic accident. These Afghan migrants are among hundreds of thousands of Afghans who have returned in the last months from Iran and Pakistan, after the announcement of a crackdown in October 2024, claiming that they were living illegally. Since the 1970s, millions of people have fled Afghanistan for Iran and Pakistan, due to several reasons. The Afghan migrants have complained that in both countries, they have faced systematic discrimination and violence. According to UN human rights officials, over two million people have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan since the start of the year, including more than 1.8 million from Iran and almost 400,000 from Pakistan. However, the authorities in Iran and Pakistan denied that they are specifically targeting Afghans.

In the tragic accident, 17 children died, who were mostly on board the bus as they were returning from Iran. The official said that the car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus.&nbsp;

At least 79 Afghan deportees from Iran killed in deadly accident after bus blasts into flames

Indians and other immigrants hoping to live and work legally in the United States will now face a new hurdle: screening for "anti-Americanism." The policy, announced Tuesday (Aug 19) by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has already raised concerns among critics about whether it gives officials too much freedom to reject applicants based on personal, subjective judgment rather than clear standards.<h2>What does this ‘anti-Americanism’ screening mean?</h2>Under the new screening rule, immigration officers have now been instructed to weigh whether a green card applicant has "endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused" anti-American, terrorist, or antisemitic views.In a statement, Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesman, defended the move, saying that American "benefits" like the green card and citizenship "should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies". Calling the rights to work and live in America "privileges", he asserted that immigration benefits are "not a right".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-just-dance-vance-newsom-taunts-trump-s-vp-jd-vance-with-new-nickname-says-not-even-his-eyeliner-lines-1755506542466">'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…'</a><h2>But, what exactly is 'anti-Americanism'?</h2>It remains unclear what, exactly, will qualify as "anti-Americanism." No definitions were provided, leaving critics uneasy about how the rule will be enforced. However, going by Trump's recent moves, it could be postulated that candidates with “woke” ideologies would not be welcome in the US.Elizabeth Jacobs, director of regulatory affairs and policy at the Centre for Immigration Studies, a group that advocates for immigration restrictions, said the government is signalling a tougher stance on behaviour and ideology, but noted officers still retain broad discretion. “The message is that the U.S. and immigration agencies are going to be less tolerant of anti-Americanism or antisemitism when making immigration decisions,” she explained.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pushes-zelensky-putin-for-one-on-one-peace-talks-says-it-ll-be-better-but-will-he-crash-the-meeting-1755656335352">Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting?</a><h2>Critics flag possibilities of bias</h2>That lack of clarity has critics worried that bias could creep into the process. Jane Lilly Lopez, a sociology professor at Brigham Young University, said the policy risks opening the door to prejudice. "For me, the really big story is they are opening the door for stereotypes and prejudice and implicit bias to take the wheel in these decisions. That’s really worrisome," she said, as quoted by ABC News.Trump's immigration crackdownAlso read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-attack-in-november-harvard-scientist-flags-mysterious-object-hurtling-towards-earth-1753526257304">Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth</a>The latest directive follows other changes undertaken by the Trump administration since its inauguration. Other moves include social media vetting and assessing applications for "good moral character" in naturalisation cases. Applicants now have to show "not simply the absence of misconduct" but also evidence of positive contributions to society. "It means you are going to just do a whole lot more work to provide evidence that you meet our standards," Lopez said.<h2>Indians in America</h2>Every year, hundreds of thousands of Indians immigrate to the US. According to the Migration Policy Institute, as of 2023, over 2.9 million Indian immigrants lived in the United States. This makes America the second most popular global destination for Indians after the United Arab Emirates.

The US has introduced a new immigration policy requiring immigrants looking to work in America to be screened for "anti-Americanism". Here's what it means for you.

Indians and other immigrants hoping to live and work legally in the United States will now face a new hurdle: screening for "anti-Americanism." The policy, announced Tuesday (Aug 19) by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has already raised concerns among critics about whether it gives officials too much freedom to reject applicants based on personal, subjective judgment rather than clear standards. What does this ‘anti-Americanism’ screening mean? Under the new screening rule, immigration officers have now been instructed to weigh whether a green card applicant has "endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused" anti-American, terrorist, or antisemitic views. In a statement, Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesman, defended the move, saying that American "benefits" like the green card and citizenship "should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies". Calling the rights to work and live in America "privileges", he asserted that immigration benefits are "not a right". Also read | 'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…' But, what exactly is 'anti-Americanism'? It remains unclear what, exactly, will qualify as "anti-Americanism." No definitions were provided, leaving critics uneasy about how the rule will be enforced. However, going by Trump's recent moves, it could be postulated that candidates with “woke” ideologies would not be welcome in the US. Elizabeth Jacobs, director of regulatory affairs and policy at the Centre for Immigration Studies, a group that advocates for immigration restrictions, said the government is signalling a tougher stance on behaviour and ideology, but noted officers still retain broad discretion. “The message is that the U.S. and immigration agencies are going to be less tolerant of anti-Americanism or antisemitism when making immigration decisions,” she explained. Also read | Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting? Critics flag possibilities of bias That lack of clarity has critics worried that bias could creep into the process. Jane Lilly Lopez, a sociology professor at Brigham Young University, said the policy risks opening the door to prejudice. "For me, the really big story is they are opening the door for stereotypes and prejudice and implicit bias to take the wheel in these decisions. That’s really worrisome," she said, as quoted by ABC News. Trump's immigration crackdown Also read | Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth The latest directive follows other changes undertaken by the Trump administration since its inauguration. Other moves include social media vetting and assessing applications for "good moral character" in naturalisation cases. Applicants now have to show "not simply the absence of misconduct" but also evidence of positive contributions to society. "It means you are going to just do a whole lot more work to provide evidence that you meet our standards," Lopez said. Indians in America Every year, hundreds of thousands of Indians immigrate to the US. According to the Migration Policy Institute, as of 2023, over 2.9 million Indian immigrants lived in the United States. This makes America the second most popular global destination for Indians after the United Arab Emirates.

The US has introduced a new immigration policy requiring immigrants looking to work in America to be screened for "anti-Americanism". Here's what it means for you.

Indians (and other immigrants) hoping to live in the US will now be screened for 'anti-Americanism'. Here's what it means

A discovery in Abu Dhabi could change the belief about how far Christianity likely spread. Researchers have found a 1,400-year-old plaque depicting a cross with a stepped pyramid that supposedly represents Golgotha, the site of Jesus's crucifixion. The artefact was unearthed on the Sir Bani Yas Island, where the researchers had dug up the ruins of a church and monastery. According to them, this finding suggests that a Christian community was thriving in the region during the seventh and eighth centuries, a time period when the religion was only believed to have existed in the Levant, Mesopotamia and parts of Europe. However, the latest finding changes that perception. Experts say that it is proof that Christianity was not only present but thriving in the southeastern Arabian Gulf island. Maria Gajewska, lead archaeologist at the site, said, "Every element of the cross incorporates regional motifs. It tells us that Christianity in this region was not only present but flourished." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-discovery-points-to-the-exact-date-jesus-christ-was-likely-crucified-8979096">NASA discovery points to the exact date Jesus Christ was likely crucified</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-chamber-in-great-pyramid-of-giza-hiding-jesus-christs-remains-8967250">Jesus Christ's body found? Scientist claims it is lying in a secret chamber under Great Pyramid</a><h2>The plaque still had the mark of its maker</h2>This also upends earlier beliefs that the religion and older pagan traditions were fading away in the region at this time, as Islam started spreading rapidly across Arabia. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, calls it a historically significant discovery which proves that the UAE had "values of coexistence and cultural openness", where several religions existed side by side peacefully. The cross that led to this is about 10.6 inches long, 6.7 inches wide, and roughly 0.8 inches thick. The plaque also has the fingerprint of its maker on the back. Archaeologists say that people used it to pray to the Lord by hanging it on a wall. Other evidence, such as the courtyard, pottery, glass artefacts and a small sea-green bottle unearthed at the site, hints at who lived there. According to the archaeologists, monks probably resided in the courtyard buildings and held spiritual retreats in the area. They are believed to have lived a good life, and the clues lie in limestone and coral structures and water cisterns. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/lost-nile-city-discovered-details-about-religion-and-cobra-goddess-wadjet-revealed-1751444188676">Lost Nile city discovered: Details of religion and Cobra Goddess Wadjet revealed</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-suggests-egyptian-pyramids-were-ancient-ports-built-near-a-nile-branch-that-disappeared-1750248323757">Scientist suggests Egyptian pyramids were 'ancient ports', built near a Nile branch that disappeared</a><h2>A tourist trail could be built at Yas Island</h2>Hager Al Menhali, an Emirati archaeologist at the department, detailed what pulled her towards the plaque. "The plaster was resting face down and something about it caught my attention," she told The National. The cross and the site would be further studied, and radiocarbon dating would be performed. The courtyard houses would also be explored. Eventually, it could all make up a tourist trail, the researchers said. "These discoveries deepen our connection to the past and inspire future generations to embrace the spirit of unity and mutual respect that has long defined our community," Al Mubarak said.

Archaeologists have found a plaque with a cross on it that could point to how far east Christianity spread. The discovery in Yas Island amid ruins of a church and monastery changed all beliefs about the religion that likely flourished even when Islam was rising in the region.

A discovery in Abu Dhabi could change the belief about how far Christianity likely spread. Researchers have found a 1,400-year-old plaque depicting a cross with a stepped pyramid that supposedly represents Golgotha, the site of Jesus's crucifixion. The artefact was unearthed on the Sir Bani Yas Island, where the researchers had dug up the ruins of a church and monastery. According to them, this finding suggests that a Christian community was thriving in the region during the seventh and eighth centuries, a time period when the religion was only believed to have existed in the Levant, Mesopotamia and parts of Europe. However, the latest finding changes that perception. Experts say that it is proof that Christianity was not only present but thriving in the southeastern Arabian Gulf island. Maria Gajewska, lead archaeologist at the site, said, "Every element of the cross incorporates regional motifs. It tells us that Christianity in this region was not only present but flourished." Also Read: NASA discovery points to the exact date Jesus Christ was likely crucified Also Read: Jesus Christ's body found? Scientist claims it is lying in a secret chamber under Great Pyramid The plaque still had the mark of its maker This also upends earlier beliefs that the religion and older pagan traditions were fading away in the region at this time, as Islam started spreading rapidly across Arabia. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, calls it a historically significant discovery which proves that the UAE had "values of coexistence and cultural openness", where several religions existed side by side peacefully. The cross that led to this is about 10.6 inches long, 6.7 inches wide, and roughly 0.8 inches thick. The plaque also has the fingerprint of its maker on the back. Archaeologists say that people used it to pray to the Lord by hanging it on a wall. Other evidence, such as the courtyard, pottery, glass artefacts and a small sea-green bottle unearthed at the site, hints at who lived there. According to the archaeologists, monks probably resided in the courtyard buildings and held spiritual retreats in the area. They are believed to have lived a good life, and the clues lie in limestone and coral structures and water cisterns. Also Read: Lost Nile city discovered: Details of religion and Cobra Goddess Wadjet revealed Also Read: Scientist suggests Egyptian pyramids were 'ancient ports', built near a Nile branch that disappeared A tourist trail could be built at Yas Island Hager Al Menhali, an Emirati archaeologist at the department, detailed what pulled her towards the plaque. "The plaster was resting face down and something about it caught my attention," she told The National. The cross and the site would be further studied, and radiocarbon dating would be performed. The courtyard houses would also be explored. Eventually, it could all make up a tourist trail, the researchers said. "These discoveries deepen our connection to the past and inspire future generations to embrace the spirit of unity and mutual respect that has long defined our community," Al Mubarak said.

Archaeologists have found a plaque with a cross on it that could point to how far east Christianity spread. The discovery in Yas Island amid ruins of a church and monastery changed all beliefs about the religion that likely flourished even when Islam was rising in the region.

1,400-year-old plaque upends long-held belief about Christianity in the 7th and 8th centuries

Looks like a scene borrowed from Noddy, a cartoon series, where the protagonist would tow his house around town. And now, a church in Sweden has followed suit as an iron ore mine threatening to swallow the town has prompted its relocation. The neo-Gothic&nbsp;Kiruna Church, apart from being a tourist attraction, is considered a distinctive structure in the town.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visuals of the church moving to its new location have grabbed many eyeballs both offline and online. In your wildest imagination, of reality, would you assume shifting locations could mean seeing an entire building roll down the road. That’s the sight churchgoers and netizens have been raving about. The 113-year-old wooden structure will be moved along a 3-mile route.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://preview.redd.it/qsgshk4jyt131.jpg?width=640&amp;crop=smart&amp;auto=webp&amp;s=787dce41f5dabdd8accd9df742bcb8226a45022a" alt="r/CasualUK - The new Noddy looks like an American teenager who moved to L.A after becoming famous on Tik Tok..."></figure><h2>What triggered the relocation?</h2>&nbsp;Sweden houses the world’s largest underground iron ore mine, and it is threatening to swallow the town of Kiruna. To safeguard the heritage structure, the city is planning the relocation on wheels, a unique way to secure its history.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/independence-day-special-british-opium-trade-to-indian-kitchens-aloo-posto-the-dark-history-of-bengal-s-comfort-food-1755254495154">Independence Day special | British opium trade to Indian kitchens; the dark history of Bengal's comfort food</a>&nbsp;“The city's history has always been shaped by our mining operations, and the ongoing urban transformation is part of this long story – the expansion of the ore body has been known for a long time. In Kiruna, we're also exploring the Per Geijer deposit, an iron ore deposit that contains high levels of phosphorus and is one of Europe's largest known deposits of rare earth elements.” LKAB, a Swedish mining company, said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A 113-year-old church in Kiruna, in northern Sweden, will embark on a two-day relocation to a new site nearly two miles away to make way for the expansion of the world&#39;s biggest underground iron ore mine <a href="https://t.co/HtwOSDLp5H">https://t.co/HtwOSDLp5H</a> <a href="https://t.co/wwVOotFsMW">pic.twitter.com/wwVOotFsMW</a>&mdash; Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1957456200053960757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Mining company's gift to the town</h2>&nbsp;LKAB, the state-owned mining company, had gifted the church to the town. In 2001, the people voted it as the best building of all time, built before 1950. Its structure is its unique feature. It was also built on a hill so devotees could see the rest of the town. The church was designed to match the Sami style of architecture.&nbsp;

113-year-old church in Sweden's Kurina relocated on wheels after world's largest iron mining ore threatens to swallow the town.

Looks like a scene borrowed from Noddy, a cartoon series, where the protagonist would tow his house around town. And now, a church in Sweden has followed suit as an iron ore mine threatening to swallow the town has prompted its relocation. The neo-Gothic Kiruna Church, apart from being a tourist attraction, is considered a distinctive structure in the town. Visuals of the church moving to its new location have grabbed many eyeballs both offline and online. In your wildest imagination, of reality, would you assume shifting locations could mean seeing an entire building roll down the road. That’s the sight churchgoers and netizens have been raving about. The 113-year-old wooden structure will be moved along a 3-mile route. What triggered the relocation? Sweden houses the world’s largest underground iron ore mine, and it is threatening to swallow the town of Kiruna. To safeguard the heritage structure, the city is planning the relocation on wheels, a unique way to secure its history. Also read: Independence Day special | British opium trade to Indian kitchens; the dark history of Bengal's comfort food “The city's history has always been shaped by our mining operations, and the ongoing urban transformation is part of this long story – the expansion of the ore body has been known for a long time. In Kiruna, we're also exploring the Per Geijer deposit, an iron ore deposit that contains high levels of phosphorus and is one of Europe's largest known deposits of rare earth elements.” LKAB, a Swedish mining company, said in a statement.

113-year-old church in Sweden's Kurina relocated on wheels after the world's largest iron mining ore threatens to swallow the town.

113-year-old Swedish church moved  3 miles on wheels. Here's why

Elon Musk, who earlier announced plans to launch a third political party in the United States, has been stepping back with his plan, as now he wants to focus on his companies, while avoiding potential conflicts with influential Republicans, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.&nbsp;Earlier in July, Musk unveiled the American Party after a public spat with Trump on his mega tax and spending bill, also called as "Big and Beautiful Bill". The American billionaire fearlessly went against the bill, openly on social media.&nbsp;“Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom”, he wrote in an X post after the bill was passed. “By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party, and you shall have it!”&nbsp;According to the report, Musk is also focused on maintaining his friendship with US Vice President JD Vance, stressing that forming a new political party would damage his relationship with Vance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-unimpressed-by-trump-s-u-turn-slams-potus-over-subsidies-after-want-elon-to-thrive-remark-1753405721675">Also read: Musk unimpressed by Trump's U-turn, slams POTUS over subsidies after 'want Elon to thrive' remark</a><h2>Musk to support Vance in 2028 elections</h2>After long feud with US President Donald Trump, Musk has now expressed interest in supporting JD Vance 'financially' if he decides to run for the presidential elections in 2028.&nbsp;Notably, Vance has called for a truce after Musk and Trump's public feud, saying that he had asked the billionaire to return to the Republican fold.&nbsp;Earlier, Musk has spent nearly $300 million last year to support Trump and other Republicans during the presidential elections.&nbsp;WATCH | Musk walks back from his threat to decommission Dragon Spacecraft<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/musk-walks-back-from-his-threat-to-decommission-dragon-spacecraft-1749200734993/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/musk-walks-back-from-his-threat-to-decommission-dragon-spacecraft-1749200734993/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>What could be the reason?</h2>In the past few months, Tesla shares have declined with more than 18 per cent this year after they posted that it has noted their worst quarterly sales in more than a decade.&nbsp;Following that, Musk warned of a "few rough quarters" after the Trump administration ended support for electric vehicles in the US.&nbsp;Notably, Musk has been a staunch supporter of Trump before and after the US presidential elections. He even brought his four-year-old son to meet the president in the Oval Office.&nbsp;

Musk has expressed support in helping JD Vance financially is he decided to run for 2028 presidential elections, adding that forming a new political party would damage his friendship with the US vice president. 

Elon Musk, who earlier announced plans to launch a third political party in the United States, has been stepping back with his plan, as now he wants to focus on his companies, while avoiding potential conflicts with influential Republicans, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. Earlier in July, Musk unveiled the American Party after a public spat with Trump on his mega tax and spending bill, also called as "Big and Beautiful Bill". The American billionaire fearlessly went against the bill, openly on social media. “Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom”, he wrote in an X post after the bill was passed. “By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party, and you shall have it!” According to the report, Musk is also focused on maintaining his friendship with US Vice President JD Vance, stressing that forming a new political party would damage his relationship with Vance. Also read: Musk unimpressed by Trump's U-turn, slams POTUS over subsidies after 'want Elon to thrive' remark Musk to support Vance in 2028 elections After long feud with US President Donald Trump, Musk has now expressed interest in supporting JD Vance 'financially' if he decides to run for the presidential elections in 2028. Notably, Vance has called for a truce after Musk and Trump's public feud, saying that he had asked the billionaire to return to the Republican fold. Earlier, Musk has spent nearly $300 million last year to support Trump and other Republicans during the presidential elections. WATCH | Musk walks back from his threat to decommission Dragon Spacecraft https://www.wionews.com/videos/musk-walks-back-from-his-threat-to-decommission-dragon-spacecraft-1749200734993/embed What could be the reason? In the past few months, Tesla shares have declined with more than 18 per cent this year after they posted that it has noted their worst quarterly sales in more than a decade. Following that, Musk warned of a "few rough quarters" after the Trump administration ended support for electric vehicles in the US. Notably, Musk has been a staunch supporter of Trump before and after the US presidential elections. He even brought his four-year-old son to meet the president in the Oval Office.

Musk has expressed support in helping JD Vance financially is he decided to run for 2028 presidential elections, adding that forming a new political party would damage his friendship with the US vice president.&nbsp;

Musk pulls back from launching new party? After Trump, billionaire to support Vance 'financially' in 2028 elections

The Malaysian state of Terengganu has introduced strict new penalties under sharia law for Muslim men who miss Friday prayers without valid reasons. According to the revised law, first-time offenders could face up to two years in prison, a fine of 3,000 ringgit (about $709.89), or both. The regulations were announced by the ruling Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), and they came into effect this week. Previously, missing three consecutive Friday prayers could result in up to six months in jail or a fine of 1,000 ringgit. The penalties will be imposed as per the Shariah Criminal Offences (Takzir) Enactment law. Enforcement of the law will rely on reports from the public and religious patrols, with reminders posted in mosques.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharia-law-over-indian-constitution-why-jharkhand-ministers-remarks-spark-political-debate-8962798">'Sharia law over Indian constitution'? Why Jharkhand minister's remarks spark political debate</a><h2>Critics condemn move but PAS lawmaker defend the new law</h2>Critics have condemned the changes, calling them excessive and a violation of personal freedoms. Human rights advocate Phil Robertson argued that such laws damage the image of Islam and infringe on individual rights, urging Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to revoke the penalties. PAS lawmaker Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi stated that punishments would be applied only in extreme cases, reported Malaysian newspaper Berita Harian. He also described the move as a necessary reminder of the importance of Friday prayers as a religious obligation.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-has-85-operational-sharia-courts-has-it-become-western-capital-of-islamic-councils-785209">Britain has 85&nbsp;operational Sharia courts. Has it become 'western capital' of Islamic councils?</a><h3>Sharia law provisions in Terengganu&nbsp;</h3>Malaysia, a Muslim-majority nation with a population of 34 million, operates under a dual legal system where Islamic law coexists with civil law. Terengganu is a conservative Malaysian state governed by PAS that enforces sharia law apart from the country's civil legal system. The Sharia law provisions in Terengganu were originally enacted in 2001. The law is administered through state-level Islamic courts. The Sharia laws were expanded in the state in 2016 to include things like disrespecting Ramadan, harassment of women as offences. PAS controls all 32 seats in the Terengganu state assembly, allowing it to pass laws without opposition. However, in 2024, Malaysia's top court struck down expanded sharia criminal laws in Kelantan, ruling them unconstitutional. This raises questions about the future of similar laws in Terengganu.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-dead-and-sharia-in-effect-we-dont-need-western-laws-taliban-leader-akhundzada-8907620">Democracy dead and sharia in effect, we don’t need Western laws: Taliban leader Akhundzada</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamists-want-sharia-push-now-yunus-quiet-9027368/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamists-want-sharia-push-now-yunus-quiet-9027368/embed</a><h2>What happened in Kelantan in 2024?</h2>In 2021, Kelantan enforced the Syariah Criminal Code (I) Enactment 2019, expanding the number of sharia offences from 35 to 68. However, in February 2024, the Federal Court ruled in the case Nik Elin v. Kelantan that 16 of the 18 challenged provisions were unconstitutional. The Court found that these laws encroached on matters under federal authority, exceeding the state’s legislative powers. In response, Kelantan’s State Assembly unanimously voted to reintroduce the struck-down provisions and set up a special committee to revise them. The move reflects the state's determination to retain stricter religious laws. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim clarified that the court's ruling did not challenge Islam itself, but addressed jurisdictional limits. He stressed that only the federal Parliament can legislate on matters listed under federal authority, and state laws must remain within constitutional boundaries. The case highlights the tension between religious governance and Malaysia’s constitutional structure.&nbsp;

Terengganu has imposed stricter Sharia penalties for Muslim men missing Friday prayers, with up to 2 years' jail or a fine. Critics call it excessive. This follows a 2024 court ruling in Kelantan striking down similar laws as unconstitutional, highlighting legal tensions in Malaysia.

The Malaysian state of Terengganu has introduced strict new penalties under sharia law for Muslim men who miss Friday prayers without valid reasons. According to the revised law, first-time offenders could face up to two years in prison, a fine of 3,000 ringgit (about $709.89), or both. The regulations were announced by the ruling Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), and they came into effect this week. Previously, missing three consecutive Friday prayers could result in up to six months in jail or a fine of 1,000 ringgit. The penalties will be imposed as per the Shariah Criminal Offences (Takzir) Enactment law. Enforcement of the law will rely on reports from the public and religious patrols, with reminders posted in mosques. Read More | 'Sharia law over Indian constitution'? Why Jharkhand minister's remarks spark political debate Critics condemn move but PAS lawmaker defend the new law Critics have condemned the changes, calling them excessive and a violation of personal freedoms. Human rights advocate Phil Robertson argued that such laws damage the image of Islam and infringe on individual rights, urging Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to revoke the penalties. PAS lawmaker Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi stated that punishments would be applied only in extreme cases, reported Malaysian newspaper Berita Harian. He also described the move as a necessary reminder of the importance of Friday prayers as a religious obligation. Read More | Britain has 85 operational Sharia courts. Has it become 'western capital' of Islamic councils? Sharia law provisions in Terengganu Malaysia, a Muslim-majority nation with a population of 34 million, operates under a dual legal system where Islamic law coexists with civil law. Terengganu is a conservative Malaysian state governed by PAS that enforces sharia law apart from the country's civil legal system. The Sharia law provisions in Terengganu were originally enacted in 2001. The law is administered through state-level Islamic courts. The Sharia laws were expanded in the state in 2016 to include things like disrespecting Ramadan, harassment of women as offences. PAS controls all 32 seats in the Terengganu state assembly, allowing it to pass laws without opposition. However, in 2024, Malaysia's top court struck down expanded sharia criminal laws in Kelantan, ruling them unconstitutional. This raises questions about the future of similar laws in Terengganu. Read More | Democracy dead and sharia in effect, we don’t need Western laws: Taliban leader Akhundzada https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamists-want-sharia-push-now-yunus-quiet-9027368/embed What happened in Kelantan in 2024? In 2021, Kelantan enforced the Syariah Criminal Code (I) Enactment 2019, expanding the number of sharia offences from 35 to 68. However, in February 2024, the Federal Court ruled in the case Nik Elin v. Kelantan that 16 of the 18 challenged provisions were unconstitutional. The Court found that these laws encroached on matters under federal authority, exceeding the state’s legislative powers. In response, Kelantan’s State Assembly unanimously voted to reintroduce the struck-down provisions and set up a special committee to revise them. The move reflects the state's determination to retain stricter religious laws. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim clarified that the court's ruling did not challenge Islam itself, but addressed jurisdictional limits. He stressed that only the federal Parliament can legislate on matters listed under federal authority, and state laws must remain within constitutional boundaries. The case highlights the tension between religious governance and Malaysia’s constitutional structure.

Terengganu has imposed stricter Sharia penalties for Muslim men missing Friday prayers, with up to 2 years' jail or a fine. Critics call it excessive. This follows a 2024 court ruling in Kelantan striking down similar laws as unconstitutional, highlighting legal tensions in Malaysia.

Sharia law imposed in THIS Malaysian state - What happens if men skip Friday prayers

A woman in China, who was convicted of fraud, has drawn widespread attention for her innovative way to avoid a sentence. The woman, known by the pseudonym Chen Hong, was sentenced to 5 years' imprisonment in December 2020 in Central China's Shanxi province. However, she managed to evade prison by exploiting a legal provision.China has provisions for people suffering from serious illness, pregnancy or nursing a baby to stay outside of prison. They were made to serve in a community correction home, or hospital, or their own homes under supervision. Taking advantage of that loophole, the woman conceived 3 times in 4 years with the same man, whom she had divorced earlier. Thus successfully postponed her sentence and avoided a single day in jail.&nbsp;The convicts are subjected to examination and submit pregnancy reports every three months. During one inspection in May, the procurator discovered that Chen had delivered her third child and had not lived with the baby. It was legally registered to her sister in laws house. On investigation, it was revealed that she had given away two of her previous sons to her ex-husband. She was later sent back to a detention centre to serve the remaining one year of her sentence.The incident has sparked heated debate; many questioned how such an obvious evasion could continue unchecked for years.&nbsp;“I was more shocked that she could get pregnant when she wanted,” said one observer as reported by the South China Morning Post.“I pity the three children who were born only because their mother wanted to escape prison,” said another observer.&nbsp;Chen is not the only person to use pregnancy to avoid imprisonment. In 2015, one woman was caught getting pregnant 15 times in 10 years, in Xinjiang Autonomous Region. Legal experts in China have also called for reforms to ensure that such loopholes are not exploited again, emphasising that justice must not be undermined by repeated deferrals. Some prosecutors suggested suspending the sentence instead of calculating time d

The woman convicted of fraud managed to escape her sentence by getting pregnant 3 times in just 4 years, she is now held in a detention centre to serve the rest of her sentence.

A woman in China, who was convicted of fraud, has drawn widespread attention for her innovative way to avoid a sentence. The woman, known by the pseudonym Chen Hong, was sentenced to 5 years' imprisonment in December 2020 in Central China's Shanxi province. However, she managed to evade prison by exploiting a legal provision. China has provisions for people suffering from serious illness, pregnancy or nursing a baby to stay outside of prison. They were made to serve in a community correction home, or hospital, or their own homes under supervision. Taking advantage of that loophole, the woman conceived 3 times in 4 years with the same man, whom she had divorced earlier. Thus successfully postponed her sentence and avoided a single day in jail. The convicts are subjected to examination and submit pregnancy reports every three months. During one inspection in May, the procurator discovered that Chen had delivered her third child and had not lived with the baby. It was legally registered to her sister in laws house. On investigation, it was revealed that she had given away two of her previous sons to her ex-husband. She was later sent back to a detention centre to serve the remaining one year of her sentence. The incident has sparked heated debate; many questioned how such an obvious evasion could continue unchecked for years. “I was more shocked that she could get pregnant when she wanted,” said one observer as reported by the South China Morning Post. “I pity the three children who were born only because their mother wanted to escape prison,” said another observer. Chen is not the only person to use pregnancy to avoid imprisonment. In 2015, one woman was caught getting pregnant 15 times in 10 years, in Xinjiang Autonomous Region. Legal experts in China have also called for reforms to ensure that such loopholes are not exploited again, emphasising that justice must not be undermined by repeated deferrals. Some prosecutors suggested suspending the sentence instead of calculating time d

The woman convicted of fraud managed to escape her sentence by getting pregnant 3 times in just 4 years. She is now held in a detention centre to serve the rest of her sentence.

Chinese woman dodges jail sentence by getting pregnant 3 times in just 4 years

US President Donald Trump once called the Ukrainian leader ‘a moderately successful comedian’. Here is a look at Volodymyr Zelensky's career, from comedian to dancer to accidental-president character to real president

The Nine Lives of Zelensky: From comedy star to wartime president with a seat at the table alongside world leaders

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) lashed out at America's museums, labelling them "the last remaining segment of 'WOKE'," in a bizarre rant on his social media platform Truth Social. Slamming museums which are often described as places that "bring history to life", Trump said that the American museums were solely focused on "how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been" without talking about America or as he called it "the ‘HOTTEST’ Country in the World". His social media rant has earned him a fitting reply from Congressional Black Caucus Whip Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who reminded the POTUS, “Slavery WAS bad, Donald.”<h2>Donald Trump vs History</h2>Declaring that America's museums are the "last remaining segment of woke", Trump has vowed to overhaul them. Singling out the Smithsonian Institution, which he has made the subject of his social media posts quite a bit lately, Trump accused the institution of being "OUT OF CONTROL" for documenting slavery and historical injustice. In his Tuesday rant on Truth Social, Trump claimed museums just fixate on "how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been" instead of highlighting "success", "brightness and "the future."He then revealed that he has instructed his attorneys "to go through the Museums, and start the exact same process that has been done with Colleges and Universities". In his usual rhyming style, Trump then proclaimed: "This Country cannot be WOKE, because WOKE IS BROKE." The 79-year-old president has previously targeted universities that resisted his push to scrap diversity and inclusion programmes, cutting off Harvard from federal funding. His latest post about 'woke' museums seems to be hinting at a similar strategy for Washington's Smithsonian museums, which are largely funded by the government.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-rewriting-history-smithsonian-removes-reference-to-his-two-impeachments-from-presidency-exhibit-1754125629073">Trump rewriting history? Smithsonian removes reference to his two impeachments from presidency exhibit</a><h2>'Slavery WAS bad, Donald'</h2>Trump's bizarre whitewashing complaints drew fire from Democrats. In a post on X, California Congress representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove, whip of the Congressional Black Caucus, hit back: "Slavery WAS bad, Donald. It's absurd that this even needs to be said".She continued, "We don’t whitewash history...we learn from it." The congresswoman then warned Trump that he can "keep trying to rewrite the past" but "@TheBlackCaucus won’t let you get away with it".<h2>So, what are Donald Trump's plans for museums?</h2>In his latest post slamming the Smithsonian, Trump did not elaborate on how exactly he intends for American museums to display "the future." What's more, what he meant by forcing museums to display "the future" also remains a mystery.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/next-step-in-trump-ification-of-us-smithsonian-exhibits-face-patriotic-purge-ahead-of-america-s-250th-anniversary-1755071050214">Next step in Trump-ification of US? Smithsonian exhibits face ‘patriotic’ purge ahead of America's 250th anniversary</a>It must be noted that President Trump's war against "woke" culture is anything but new. Recently, the Smithsonian has felt political heat quite a bit. Just last month, the White House ordered it to erase references to Trump's two impeachments from the National Museum of American History's "A Glorious Burden" exhibit. The museum briefly removed them, then restored them, insisting the edits were cosmetic, not political.

Trump has now turned his “anti-woke” crusade on US museums, blasting them for focusing on slavery and injustice instead of celebrating America as the “hottest country in the world.” Here's what he said in his latest social media rant targeting the Smithsonian.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) lashed out at America's museums, labelling them "the last remaining segment of 'WOKE'," in a bizarre rant on his social media platform Truth Social. Slamming museums which are often described as places that "bring history to life", Trump said that the American museums were solely focused on "how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been" without talking about America or as he called it "the ‘HOTTEST’ Country in the World". His social media rant has earned him a fitting reply from Congressional Black Caucus Whip Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who reminded the POTUS, “Slavery WAS bad, Donald.” Donald Trump vs History Declaring that America's museums are the "last remaining segment of woke", Trump has vowed to overhaul them. Singling out the Smithsonian Institution, which he has made the subject of his social media posts quite a bit lately, Trump accused the institution of being "OUT OF CONTROL" for documenting slavery and historical injustice. In his Tuesday rant on Truth Social, Trump claimed museums just fixate on "how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been" instead of highlighting "success", "brightness and "the future." He then revealed that he has instructed his attorneys "to go through the Museums, and start the exact same process that has been done with Colleges and Universities". In his usual rhyming style, Trump then proclaimed: "This Country cannot be WOKE, because WOKE IS BROKE." The 79-year-old president has previously targeted universities that resisted his push to scrap diversity and inclusion programmes, cutting off Harvard from federal funding. His latest post about 'woke' museums seems to be hinting at a similar strategy for Washington's Smithsonian museums, which are largely funded by the government. Also read | Trump rewriting history? Smithsonian removes reference to his two impeachments from presidency exhibit 'Slavery WAS bad, Donald' Trump's bizarre whitewashing complaints drew fire from Democrats. In a post on X, California Congress representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove, whip of the Congressional Black Caucus, hit back: "Slavery WAS bad, Donald. It's absurd that this even needs to be said". She continued, "We don’t whitewash history...we learn from it." The congresswoman then warned Trump that he can "keep trying to rewrite the past" but "@TheBlackCaucus won’t let you get away with it". So, what are Donald Trump's plans for museums? In his latest post slamming the Smithsonian, Trump did not elaborate on how exactly he intends for American museums to display "the future." What's more, what he meant by forcing museums to display "the future" also remains a mystery. Also read | Next step in Trump-ification of US? Smithsonian exhibits face ‘patriotic’ purge ahead of America's 250th anniversary It must be noted that President Trump's war against "woke" culture is anything but new. Recently, the Smithsonian has felt political heat quite a bit. Just last month, the White House ordered it to erase references to Trump's two impeachments from the National Museum of American History's "A Glorious Burden" exhibit. The museum briefly removed them, then restored them, insisting the edits were cosmetic, not political.

Trump has now turned his “anti-woke” crusade on US museums, blasting them for focusing on slavery and injustice instead of celebrating America as the “hottest country in the world.” Here's what he said in his latest social media rant targeting the Smithsonian.

Trump vs history: POTUS tells museums to stop saying 'how bad Slavery was,' slams 'WOKE-ness' in bizarre rant

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Trump vs history: POTUS tells museums to stop saying 'how bad Slavery was'