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Russia’s Chargé d'Affaires in India, Roman Babushkin, spoke to the media on Wednesday (Aug 20) in New Delhi and stated that Russia views India-Pakistan tensions as a bilateral issue, while it welcomed steps toward de-escalation. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the Pahalgam attack and reiterated Russia’s consistent position before Operation Sindoor. He also welcomed Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to India, stating that ‘Russia-India-China’ is an “important mechanism” and it should be resumed “sooner rather than later.” His statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's tariff war and his administration's attack on India for trading with Russia.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On India-Pakistan tensions, Roman Babushkin, Chargé d&#39;Affaires of the Russian Embassy in India, says, &quot;Russia has a clear stance that this is a bilateral dispute, and welcomed the agreement on descalation between the two sides. As far as Operation Sindoor and… <a href="https://t.co/HMnXuJ5iQ0">pic.twitter.com/HMnXuJ5iQ0</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958062816771903769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Read More | <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><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-russian-oil-imports-slide-in-july-1755672237770/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-russian-oil-imports-slide-in-july-1755672237770/embed</a><h2>What Russian diplomat said about US tariffs</h2>Amid Trump's tariffs on India for trading with Russia, Babushkin dismissed Western criticism and said that if the West is criticising, it is a sign that India is on the right path. “If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right…,” he said. He affirmed Russia doesn’t expect India to stop purchases, citing strong strategic ties. Babushkin highlighted growing trade despite sanctions and praised the recent Putin-Modi call as proof of India's importance to Russia, emphasising continued cooperation and problem-solving between the two nations. "We are capable of finding any solution for mutual satisfaction. The deepening of our partnership will help us grow together..." he added.&nbsp;Read More | <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>Wang Yi's India visit&nbsp;</h2>Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi wrapped up his visit to India on Tuesday and held a meeting with top Indian ministers, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The engagement with top Chinese minister suggests a potential reset in India-China ties, with both countries aiming to rebuild trust and expand cooperation while managing differences like the border dispute. The visit took place amid Donald Trump's tariff war and the Ukraine-Russia war. In an apparent reference to US, China opined that the world is undergoing a ‘once-in-a-century transformation at an accelerating pace’ and dealing with ‘bullying.’ One of the most important outcomes of the meeting between the two leaders was seen as China lifting export restrictions on fertilisers, rare earth magnets and minerals, and tunnel boring machines.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-oil-purchase-from-russia-funding-ukraine-war-trump-s-aide-makes-sensational-allegations-1755570038790">India's oil purchase from Russia funding Ukraine war? Trump's aide makes sensational allegations</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russian diplomat Roman Babushkin spoke about the conflict between India and China and as well as commented on the recent engagement between Beijing And New Delhi. He also dismissed Western criticism of India’s Russian oil imports amid Trump's tariffs

Russia’s Chargé d'Affaires in India, Roman Babushkin, spoke to the media on Wednesday (Aug 20) in New Delhi and stated that Russia views India-Pakistan tensions as a bilateral issue, while it welcomed steps toward de-escalation. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the Pahalgam attack and reiterated Russia’s consistent position before Operation Sindoor. He also welcomed Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to India, stating that ‘Russia-India-China’ is an “important mechanism” and it should be resumed “sooner rather than later.” His statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's tariff war and his administration's attack on India for trading with Russia.

Russian diplomat Roman Babushkin spoke about the conflict between India and China and as well as commented on the recent engagement between Beijing And New Delhi. He also dismissed Western criticism of India’s Russian oil imports amid Trump's tariffs

What Russian diplomat said on India's relations with Pakistan and China amid Trump's tariff war

A council in London wants its staff to use inclusive language and so has prohibited them from even saying the words "husband and wife" to refer to a married couple. The Royal Borough of Greenwich council in southeast London has instead asked them to use the words “spouse” or “partner”. It has prepared an elaborate language guide to help them be aware of the inclusive words. This move has triggered a debate in London, with people questioning the need for such a change. While some people have welcomed the move, others are slamming the woke culture that has led to calling off the use of the words "husband and wife." The Sun first reported about the change and has a 45-page booklet that lists everything the staff should and should not say to be more inclusive. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-woke-marxist-lunacy-in-ai-models-trump-launches-90-point-ai-action-plan-signs-executive-order-barring-government-use-of-woke-ai-models-1753312330849">'No woke Marxist lunacy': Trump launches 90-point 'AI Action plan,' signs executive order barring government use of 'woke' AI models</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why not “husband and wife”</h2>One of the other points in the handbook is avoiding the words “ladies and gentlemen”. The staff has been told not to say "Welcome, ladies and gentlemen" while running public meetings and events. Arguing that the change is needed, the Greenwich council book further states that it is important so they do not offend anyone, since traditional terms are no longer acceptable. It stressed that gender-neutral language is the way forward. However, not everyone agrees with the change, with people on the internet calling it "madness" and “nonsensical woke garbage.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-targets-woke-culture-reverses-biden-era-policies-on-gender-and-dei-enforces-legal-recognition-of-only-two-genders-male-and-female-8639296">Trump targets 'woke' culture, enforces legal recognition of only two genders — male and female</a><h2>Don't ask for "Christian name"</h2>It also tells its staff not to ask people for their "Christian name", a phrase used to refer to a person's given name, mostly at the time of baptism in Christian tradition. The council says this is to create an inclusive environment and promote respectful communication for those who get in touch with the council for their needs. It admits that changing the way staff communicate is about flipping "habits" formed over the years. The foreword of the book states, “For some of us, communicating in a more inclusive way is about changing deeply embedded habits.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-s-two-word-reply-to-wild-multiverse-where-kamala-harris-is-us-president-and-donald-trump-is-jailed-1752221814414">Elon Musk's two-word reply to wild multiverse where Kamala Harris is US president and Trump is jailed</a>&nbsp;<h2>No “mum and dad”</h2>However, it is not compulsory for the workers to follow the guidelines in the book. A spokesman for the council told The Daily Express, "Our inclusive language guide is advisory only, and was designed to encourage staff to reflect on the use of language in the workplace and how it might impact their colleagues." This is not the first such advisory in London. Earlier, the Merton council in south London told staff to avoid saying “mum and dad” for parents, and instead call them "caregivers."

A London council does not want to offend anyone, and in this endeavour, it is telling its staff how to talk to people. They have been told not to use certain words and have instead been offered a list of alternate things they should be saying to make everyone feel included.

A council in London wants its staff to use inclusive language and so has prohibited them from even saying the words "husband and wife" to refer to a married couple. The Royal Borough of Greenwich council in southeast London has instead asked them to use the words “spouse” or “partner”. It has prepared an elaborate language guide to help them be aware of the inclusive words. This move has triggered a debate in London, with people questioning the need for such a change. While some people have welcomed the move, others are slamming the woke culture that has led to calling off the use of the words "husband and wife." The Sun first reported about the change and has a 45-page booklet that lists everything the staff should and should not say to be more inclusive. Also Read: 'No woke Marxist lunacy': Trump launches 90-point 'AI Action plan,' signs executive order barring government use of 'woke' AI models Why not “husband and wife” One of the other points in the handbook is avoiding the words “ladies and gentlemen”. The staff has been told not to say "Welcome, ladies and gentlemen" while running public meetings and events. Arguing that the change is needed, the Greenwich council book further states that it is important so they do not offend anyone, since traditional terms are no longer acceptable. It stressed that gender-neutral language is the way forward. However, not everyone agrees with the change, with people on the internet calling it "madness" and “nonsensical woke garbage.” Also Read: Trump targets 'woke' culture, enforces legal recognition of only two genders — male and female Don't ask for "Christian name" It also tells its staff not to ask people for their "Christian name", a phrase used to refer to a person's given name, mostly at the time of baptism in Christian tradition. The council says this is to create an inclusive environment and promote respectful communication for those who get in touch with the council for their needs. It admits that changing the way staff communicate is about flipping "habits" formed over the years. The foreword of the book states, “For some of us, communicating in a more inclusive way is about changing deeply embedded habits.” Also Read: Elon Musk's two-word reply to wild multiverse where Kamala Harris is US president and Trump is jailed No “mum and dad” However, it is not compulsory for the workers to follow the guidelines in the book. A spokesman for the council told The Daily Express, "Our inclusive language guide is advisory only, and was designed to encourage staff to reflect on the use of language in the workplace and how it might impact their colleagues." This is not the first such advisory in London. Earlier, the Merton council in south London told staff to avoid saying “mum and dad” for parents, and instead call them "caregivers."

A London council doesn't want to offend anyone, and in this endeavour, it is telling its staff how to talk to people. They have been told not to use certain words and have instead been offered a list of alternate things they should be saying to make everyone feel included.

Not husband and wife, but...: Why a London council wants its staff to stop using these words

India in the United Nations (UN) slammed Pakistan for sexual crimes against women after 1971 and highlighted India's seriousness towards the issue. Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on 'Conflict-Related Sexual Violence,' India's Charge d'Affaires at the United Nations, Eldos Mathew Punnoos, on Tuesday (local time) highlighted the sexual violence perpetrated by Pakistan ever since 1971. Punnoos condemned Pakistan’s ongoing sexual violence against women, highlighting widespread abuses like abduction, trafficking, and forced conversions, and claimed that these offences are often ignored by Pakistan’s judiciary. He stressed the need to punish perpetrators and support survivors through a survivor-centric, multi-faceted approach, including justice, healthcare, and rehabilitation, as emphasised by UNSC Resolution 2467.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-pm-modi-s-big-warning-to-pakistan-india-won-t-tolerate-nuclear-threats-1755233946883/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-pm-modi-s-big-warning-to-pakistan-india-won-t-tolerate-nuclear-threats-1755233946883/embed</a>&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-biggest-threat-is-that-if-india-launches-a-missile-strike-pakistan-pm-s-aide-questions-islamabad-s-defence-capabilties-1755665953983">'Biggest threat is that if India launches a missile strike': Pakistan PM's aide questions Islamabad's defence capabilties</a>&nbsp;Even as Pakistan is currently serving as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, India reminded it of the Pakistani Army's violations against Bangladeshi women in 1971. "The utter impunity with which the Pakistan army perpetrated heinous crimes of gross sexual violence against hundreds of thousands of women in erstwhile East Pakistan in 1971 is a matter of shameful record. This deplorable pattern continues unabated and with impunity to this day. Rampant abduction, trafficking, child early and forced marriages and domestic servitude, sexual violence and forced religious conversions of thousands of vulnerable women and girls as weapons of persecution towards religious and ethnic minority communities are reported and chronicled, including in the recent OHCHR reports," he added. “These reports highlight that its judiciary also validates the vile acts by Pakistan,” he said.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-creates-new-missile-unit-after-india-standoff-nation-readies-for-future-war-1755173658998">Pakistan Creates New Missile Unit After India Standoff! Nation Readies For Future War</a><h2>Punnoos highlights India's seriousness towards the issue</h2>In his statement, Punnoos praised India’s leadership in addressing sexual violence, noting India’s early contributions to the UN Secretary-General’s Trust Fund and its commitment under Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that India’s deployment of female peacekeepers and all-women police units in UN missions has been effective in addressing gender-based violence. He added that India also offers specialised training and shares expertise globally. Further, he informed the UN that India has established the Nirbhaya Fund, an emergency response system, One Stop Centers, and fast-track justice programs to protect women and support survivors. Punnoos reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to eradicating sexual violence in conflict and aiding survivors worldwide.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAtUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtUN</a> Cd’A <a href="https://twitter.com/eldosmp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eldosmp</a> delivered 🇮🇳’s statement at the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Security Council Open Debate on Conflict-related Sexual Violence today. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://t.co/TKS5gylXyA">pic.twitter.com/TKS5gylXyA</a>&mdash; India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/1957886714992816367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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At the UN Security Council, India condemned Pakistan for the ongoing sexual violence on women since 1971, including abduction, trafficking, and forced conversions. Eldos Punnoos highlighted Pakistan’s impunity and the judiciary's failure to act

India in the United Nations (UN) slammed Pakistan for sexual crimes against women after 1971 and highlighted India's seriousness towards the issue. Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on 'Conflict-Related Sexual Violence,' India's Charge d'Affaires at the United Nations, Eldos Mathew Punnoos, on Tuesday (local time) highlighted the sexual violence perpetrated by Pakistan ever since 1971. Punnoos condemned Pakistan’s ongoing sexual violence against women, highlighting widespread abuses like abduction, trafficking, and forced conversions, and claimed that these offences are often ignored by Pakistan’s judiciary. He stressed the need to punish perpetrators and support survivors through a survivor-centric, multi-faceted approach, including justice, healthcare, and rehabilitation, as emphasised by UNSC Resolution 2467. https://www.wionews.com/videos/independence-day-pm-modi-s-big-warning-to-pakistan-india-won-t-tolerate-nuclear-threats-1755233946883/embed Read More | 'Biggest threat is that if India launches a missile strike': Pakistan PM's aide questions Islamabad's defence capabilties Even as Pakistan is currently serving as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, India reminded it of the Pakistani Army's violations against Bangladeshi women in 1971. "The utter impunity with which the Pakistan army perpetrated heinous crimes of gross sexual violence against hundreds of thousands of women in erstwhile East Pakistan in 1971 is a matter of shameful record. This deplorable pattern continues unabated and with impunity to this day. Rampant abduction, trafficking, child early and forced marriages and domestic servitude, sexual violence and forced religious conversions of thousands of vulnerable women and girls as weapons of persecution towards religious and ethnic minority communities are reported and chronicled, including in the recent OHCHR reports," he added. “These reports highlight that its judiciary also validates the vile acts by Pakistan,” he said. Read More | Pakistan Creates New Missile Unit After India Standoff! Nation Readies For Future War Punnoos highlights India's seriousness towards the issue In his statement, Punnoos praised India’s leadership in addressing sexual violence, noting India’s early contributions to the UN Secretary-General’s Trust Fund and its commitment under Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that India’s deployment of female peacekeepers and all-women police units in UN missions has been effective in addressing gender-based violence. He added that India also offers specialised training and shares expertise globally. Further, he informed the UN that India has established the Nirbhaya Fund, an emergency response system, One Stop Centers, and fast-track justice programs to protect women and support survivors. Punnoos reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to eradicating sexual violence in conflict and aiding survivors worldwide.

At the UN Security Council, India condemned Pakistan for the ongoing sexual violence on women since 1971, including abduction, trafficking, and forced conversions. Eldos Punnoos highlighted Pakistan’s impunity and the judiciary's failure to act

'Judiciary validates vile acts...': India slams Pakistan at UN for sexual violence against women, calls out Pak Army's 'impunity'

On Wednesday (August 20), Russian Chargé d'Affaires Roman Babushkin, when asked about India’s Iron Dome, promptly enquired, ‘you mean Sudarshan Chakra?’. Not just that, he also assured that he can answer better in Hindi. Talking about Russia and India’s relationship, he said, “We have a true strategic partnership, and have earned the trust in the relationship.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-russian-oil-imports-slide-in-july-1755672237770/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-russian-oil-imports-slide-in-july-1755672237770/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“Russian weapons are a natural choice for India. We are partners of choice in defence...ready to support any endeavour,” he added.&nbsp;

Babushkin also assured that India must be doing something right for the West to criticise, the comments come amid 50% US tariff on Indian goods, “If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right...We don't expect that to happen (India to stop buying oil from Russia).”&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>&nbsp;He added, “We know about the challenging circumstances for India. This is the true strategic partnership we are enjoying. Whatever happens, even during challenges, we are committed to removing any problems...The recent phone call by President Putin to PM Modi ji, explaining and sharing the information about recent developments in Ukraine, means India matters a lot to Russia. We are capable of finding any solution for mutual satisfaction. The deepening of our partnership will help us grow together...”&nbsp;India and Russia have had a historic partnership since Soviet Union times; the two countries have also collaborated on defence equipment and its making. Be it the BrahMos cruise missile or the 5th-generation fighter aircraft.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Ministry of External Affairs, bilateral projects include the supply of S-400, licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI, supply of MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov), production of AK-203 rifles in India and BrahMos missiles. India-Russia military technical cooperation has evolved over time from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development and production of advanced defence technologies and systems.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On US trade adviser stating India should stop buying Russian oil, Roman Babushkin, Chargé d&#39;Affaires of the Russian Embassy in India,&quot;If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right...We don&#39;t expect that to happen (India to stop buying oil… <a href="https://t.co/odq7HeXhy6">pic.twitter.com/odq7HeXhy6</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958059040468009222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Russian diplomat Roman Babushkin at a recently concluded press conference was quite a moment to capture. When asked about India’s Iron Dome, he promptly enquired, ‘you mean Sudarshan Chakra?’ with that he also flaunted his Hindi speaking skills.

On Wednesday (August 20), Russian Chargé d'Affaires Roman Babushkin, when asked about India’s Iron Dome, promptly enquired, ‘you mean Sudarshan Chakra?’. Not just that, he also assured that he can answer better in Hindi. Talking about Russia and India’s relationship, he said, “We have a true strategic partnership, and have earned the trust in the relationship.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-russian-oil-imports-slide-in-july-1755672237770/embed “Russian weapons are a natural choice for India. We are partners of choice in defence...ready to support any endeavour,” he added.

Russian diplomat Roman Babushkin at a recently concluded press conference was quite a moment to capture. When asked about India’s Iron Dome, he promptly enquired, ‘you mean Sudarshan Chakra?’ with that he also flaunted his Hindi speaking skills.

'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has defended US action against India and explained why US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on New Delhi and not Beijing, despite China doing trade with Russia. In an interview, Bessent said that China’s increase in Russian oil imports from 13 per cent to 16 per cent is modest and reflects diversification, while India’s rise from less than 1 per cent to about 42 per cent is seen as profiteering. Bessent criticised India for making $16 billion in excess profits by buying cheap Russian oil and reselling it during the war, calling this practice the "Indian arbitrage" and labelling it unacceptable. His response came a day after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro doubled down on his attack on New Delhi for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia.&nbsp;Read More | <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>&nbsp;“China importing Russian oil is sub-optimal. But if you go back and look, before the 2022 invasion, 13% of China’s oil was already coming from Russia and now it’s 16%. So China has a diversified input of their oil. If you go back and look back, India had less than 1% of their oil (coming from Russia) and now it’s up to, I believe, 42%. So India is just profiteering,” Bessent said. Earlier on Wednesday, Navarro also claimed that India's crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. Meanwhile, Bessent noted that the current situation with China is stable, as the two largest economies have recently agreed to extend a pause in their ongoing trade conflict over tariffs.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-india-china-agree-on-new-steps-for-boundary-talks-in-a-boost-to-bilateral-ties-wion-1755629027363/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-india-china-agree-on-new-steps-for-boundary-talks-in-a-boost-to-bilateral-ties-wion-1755629027363/embed</a>&nbsp;Read More | <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>Trump's trade war and India's response</h2>On July 31, President Trump imposed modified tariffs, including a 25% tariff on India, citing a national emergency. This followed a pause on earlier tariffs, which allowed countries 90 days to negotiate trade deals with the US. Trump added another 25% tariff on India specifically for buying Russian oil and warned other nations against similar actions. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated on August 4 that its energy imports are essential to ensure affordable prices amid global market conditions. The ministry criticised other countries for trading with Russia while unfairly targeting India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded firmly, emphasising he would not compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers, and fishermen, even at a cost. During his Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi reaffirmed his commitment to protecting India’s agricultural community, declaring he would stand resolutely against any move harming them.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-trump-imposed-tariffs-on-india-citing-russian-oil-purchase-press-secretary-leavitt-reveals-real-reason-1755664123235">Why Trump imposed tariffs on India citing Russian oil purchase? Press Secretary Leavitt reveals REAL reason</a>&nbsp;

US Treasury Secretary Bessent defended tariffs on India, citing India’s rise in Russian oil imports from under 1 per cent to 42 per cent as profiteering, unlike China’s modest increase. This comes after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro slammed India on the same issue

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has defended US action against India and explained why US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on New Delhi and not Beijing, despite China doing trade with Russia. In an interview, Bessent said that China’s increase in Russian oil imports from 13 per cent to 16 per cent is modest and reflects diversification, while India’s rise from less than 1 per cent to about 42 per cent is seen as profiteering. Bessent criticised India for making $16 billion in excess profits by buying cheap Russian oil and reselling it during the war, calling this practice the "Indian arbitrage" and labelling it unacceptable. His response came a day after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro doubled down on his attack on New Delhi for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia. Read More | Trump says Ukraine peace deal would get him to HEAVEN- yes, you read it right “China importing Russian oil is sub-optimal. But if you go back and look, before the 2022 invasion, 13% of China’s oil was already coming from Russia and now it’s 16%. So China has a diversified input of their oil. If you go back and look back, India had less than 1% of their oil (coming from Russia) and now it’s up to, I believe, 42%. So India is just profiteering,” Bessent said. Earlier on Wednesday, Navarro also claimed that India's crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. Meanwhile, Bessent noted that the current situation with China is stable, as the two largest economies have recently agreed to extend a pause in their ongoing trade conflict over tariffs. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-india-china-agree-on-new-steps-for-boundary-talks-in-a-boost-to-bilateral-ties-wion-1755629027363/embed Read More | Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting? Trump's trade war and India's response On July 31, President Trump imposed modified tariffs, including a 25% tariff on India, citing a national emergency. This followed a pause on earlier tariffs, which allowed countries 90 days to negotiate trade deals with the US. Trump added another 25% tariff on India specifically for buying Russian oil and warned other nations against similar actions. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated on August 4 that its energy imports are essential to ensure affordable prices amid global market conditions. The ministry criticised other countries for trading with Russia while unfairly targeting India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded firmly, emphasising he would not compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers, and fishermen, even at a cost. During his Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi reaffirmed his commitment to protecting India’s agricultural community, declaring he would stand resolutely against any move harming them. Read More | Why Trump imposed tariffs on India citing Russian oil purchase? Press Secretary Leavitt reveals REAL reason

US Treasury Secretary Bessent defended tariffs on India, citing India’s rise in Russian oil imports from under 1 per cent to 42 per cent as profiteering, unlike China’s modest increase. This comes after White House trade adviser Peter Navarro slammed India on the same issue

Why US imposed tariffs on India and not China? Trump's Treasury Secretary explains

On Wednesday (August 20), Russia reacted strongly to US remarks that it sanctioned India to end Ukraine war. Senior Russian diplomats praising trade with New Delhi and saying it's market is open to Indian goods, while strongly backing BRICS as a global stabilising force. “We have a true strategic partnership, have earned the trust in the relationship,” said Russian Diplomat Roman Babushkin.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-showcases-it-s-most-powerful-missile-flamingo-1755668661428/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-showcases-it-s-most-powerful-missile-flamingo-1755668661428/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;"BRICS is a stabilising force and the center of gravity for those seeking mutually beneficial cooperation," Babushkin said on Indian ties in the backdrop of US tariffs. He also called BRICS a 'trusted platform', which has developed 'robust cooperation', which can promote multipolar cooperation. The statement has come after the recently concluded meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. It was a seemingly different engagement from the one that took place earlier in February, where Zelensky rarely got a slot to speak or put his agenda forth.&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> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The US President is confident he will end this war, which will be the sixth war he has paused, according to his claims. While Ukraine is ready even for a ceasefire, Washington is eyeing a larger deal. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-will-putin-zelensky-meet-that-s-undecided-but-trump-is-ready-with-trilateral-meeting-location-1755633960988">Where will Putin, Zelensky meet? That's undecided, but Trump is ready with trilateral meeting location</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Babushkin added, “We participated in the Vande Bharat project.” He also pointed to ‘dynamic cooperation in the railway sector’ and assured India, 'our capabilities are available for your disposal'. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On US sanctioning 50% tariff on India, Roman Babushkin, Chargé d&#39;Affaires of the Russian Embassy in India, says, &quot;..If Indian goods are facing difficulties entering the US market, the Russian market is welcoming Indian exports...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/DjeUdmSYbJ">pic.twitter.com/DjeUdmSYbJ</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958052741156049332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Wednesday (August 20), Russia reacted strongly to US remarks that it sanctioned India to end Ukraine war. 

On Wednesday (August 20), Russia reacted strongly to US remarks that it sanctioned India to end Ukraine war. Senior Russian diplomats praising trade with New Delhi and saying it's market is open to Indian goods, while strongly backing BRICS as a global stabilising force. “We have a true strategic partnership, have earned the trust in the relationship,” said Russian Diplomat Roman Babushkin. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-showcases-it-s-most-powerful-missile-flamingo-1755668661428/embed "BRICS is a stabilising force and the center of gravity for those seeking mutually beneficial cooperation," Babushkin said on Indian ties in the backdrop of US tariffs. He also called BRICS a 'trusted platform', which has developed 'robust cooperation', which can promote multipolar cooperation. The statement has come after the recently concluded meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. It was a seemingly different engagement from the one that took place earlier in February, where Zelensky rarely got a slot to speak or put his agenda forth. Also read: 'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?': Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome The US President is confident he will end this war, which will be the sixth war he has paused, according to his claims. While Ukraine is ready even for a ceasefire, Washington is eyeing a larger deal. Also read: Where will Putin, Zelensky meet? That's undecided, but Trump is ready with trilateral meeting location Babushkin added, “We participated in the Vande Bharat project.” He also pointed to ‘dynamic cooperation in the railway sector’ and assured India, 'our capabilities are available for your disposal'.

On Wednesday (August 20), Russia reacted strongly to US remarks that it sanctioned India to end Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Russia pushes back against US 'sanctions' against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising force

Israeli President Isaac Herzog voiced a strong call for the release of Nepali national Bipin Joshi from Hamas captivity. The call for Bipin Joshi’s release from Hamas captivity is growing louder not only in Nepal but also in Israel. Bipin Joshi’s mother, Padma, and sister, Pushpa, appealed to Israeli President for his release during their meeting at the President’s Residence. In response, the President said he shares their anguish, saying ‘we are screaming for Bipin’s return’.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-want-release-of-all-israeli-hostages-before-any-deal-1755660575664/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-want-release-of-all-israeli-hostages-before-any-deal-1755660575664/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;On his social media platform X, President shared a video with Bipin’s family, stating that Israel will not rest until Bipin and all hostages return home.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Heartbreaking meeting with Padma and Pushpa, the mother and sister of Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese student abducted by Hamas on October 7. Israel stands with them in their pain, and we will not stop until every hostage is returned home. Bipin and all the hostages must be returned now!” Herzog posted on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bipin Joshi, an agriculture student from Nepal, arrived in Israel to pursue his studies just weeks before the October 7th attack. The President pointed to that tragic morning, “he was brutally abducted from Kibbutz Alumim by Hamas terrorists and has since been held captive in Gaza”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Heartbreaking meeting with Padma and Pushpa, the mother and sister of Bipin Joshi — a Nepalese student abducted by Hamas on October 7. Israel stands with them in their pain, and we will not stop until every hostage is returned home. Bipin and all the hostages must be returned… <a href="https://t.co/peA6miFAlp">pic.twitter.com/peA6miFAlp</a>&mdash; יצחק הרצוג Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) <a href="https://twitter.com/Isaac_Herzog/status/1957132189734191376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Expressing solidarity with the family, the President said, “Today, at the President’s Residence, we held a painful and moving meeting with Padma and Pushpa, Bipin’s mother and sister, who came to Israel for the first time to raise their voices for his release. I stand with them, sharing their anguish, and with the pain of all the hostage families enduring this terrible nightmare. We will not rest and we will not remain silent until Bipin and all our hostages return home, every single one of them.”&nbsp;Meanwhile at home, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba affirmed that all possible efforts to release Joshi are being taken emphasising it as a highest priority for the Government of Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-agrees-to-gaza-ceasefire-proposal-in-hostage-release-deal-report-1755530819817">Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal in hostage release deal: Report</a>&nbsp;Taking it to the social media, the Prime Minister mentioned his calls with the President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, on March 20, who has been actively engaged in Middle East peace efforts, and with the President of Egypt Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, on February 28, regarding this matter.&nbsp;The Foreign Minister said that Bipin’s case has been raised with ambassadors of various countries, in bilateral and multilateral meetings, at international forums G77 plus China, the G20, and the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) conference in Doha.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I also urged world leaders to support his release during my participation in the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York last September,” Deuba wrote on her Facebook wall.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Minister recalled her calls with Qatar’s Foreign Minister Dr. Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, who is a key mediator in the peace talks, requesting his direct intervention. This also includes with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Egypt’s Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdel-Ati, urging them to take concrete steps for Bipin’s release.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the Nepal embassies in the Middle East have been directed to remain deeply engaged on this issue and pursue every possible initiative for his safe and swift release.&nbsp;Similar request has been made to Assistant to the U.S. President and Senior Director for South and Central Asia Ricky Gill for U.S. support in securing Bipin’s release.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both Prime Minister and Foreign Minister reiterated that the Nepal Government is pursuing this matter with the highest priority and that Nepal stands firmly with Bipin’s family and assure them that our diplomatic efforts are ongoing and unwavering.

Nepali national Bipin Joshi has been held hostage by Hamas and now, his family has visited Israeli President seeking his help for his release.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog voiced a strong call for the release of Nepali national Bipin Joshi from Hamas captivity. The call for Bipin Joshi’s release from Hamas captivity is growing louder not only in Nepal but also in Israel. Bipin Joshi’s mother, Padma, and sister, Pushpa, appealed to Israeli President for his release during their meeting at the President’s Residence. In response, the President said he shares their anguish, saying ‘we are screaming for Bipin’s return’. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-want-release-of-all-israeli-hostages-before-any-deal-1755660575664/embed On his social media platform X, President shared a video with Bipin’s family, stating that Israel will not rest until Bipin and all hostages return home. “Heartbreaking meeting with Padma and Pushpa, the mother and sister of Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese student abducted by Hamas on October 7. Israel stands with them in their pain, and we will not stop until every hostage is returned home. Bipin and all the hostages must be returned now!” Herzog posted on X. Bipin Joshi, an agriculture student from Nepal, arrived in Israel to pursue his studies just weeks before the October 7th attack. The President pointed to that tragic morning, “he was brutally abducted from Kibbutz Alumim by Hamas terrorists and has since been held captive in Gaza”.

Nepali national Bipin Joshi has been held hostage by Hamas and now, his family has visited the Israeli President seeking his help for his release.

Israeli President calls for release of Nepali hostage in Hamas captivity

The US Air Force in 2024 released images of B-21 Raider, its next-generation stealth bomber soaring above the clouds. It has dual-capable penetrating strike power

What is B-21 raider, America's nuclear stealth bomber that it is planning to use after B-2 bomber era

An earthquake of magnitude 3.7 jolted Pakistan on Wednesday. It occurred at a depth of 170 km, according to a statement by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). In a post on X, the NCS said, "EQ of M: 3.7, On: 20/08/2025 02:38:23 IST, Lat: 29.86 N, Long: 71.09 E, Depth: 170 Km, Location: Pakistan."&nbsp;Similarly, an earthquake of magnitude 5.2 hit Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday, as per the Seismic Network of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)'s statement quoted by Dawn. It stated that the quake was experienced in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, KP's Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, and Abbottabad.&nbsp;In a press release of the PMD, it was confirmed that the quake originated at 10:20 am (local time) and the epicentre was the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, at a depth of 190km. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority of the Punjab reported that the earthquake was also experienced in the province's divisions of Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, Sahiwal and Sargodha, as per the Dawn report.<h3>No casualties reported</h3>KP's Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Faizi confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far and no emergency has been declared.&nbsp;Pakistan lies on the three major tectonic plates that include the Eurasian, Arabian, and Indian, which form five seismic zones inside the country. The overlap of several fault lines makes tectonic movements a recurring phenomenon in the region.&nbsp;The Hindu Kush region, considered among the most active seismic zones in the world, lies at the meeting point of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Their ongoing collision frequently triggers earthquakes, including rare deep-focus quakes that can occur at depths exceeding 200 km, according to the US Geological Survey.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-earthquake-likely-to-hit-delhi-in-future-here-s-what-disaster-management-authority-says-1752125502901">Massive earthquake likely to hit Delhi in future? Here's what disaster management authority says</a>

Pakistan is a part of the three major tectonic plates that include the Eurasian, Arabian, and Indian, which have five seismic zones. The overlap of several fault lines makes tectonic movements a recurring phenomenon in the region.

An earthquake of magnitude 3.7 jolted Pakistan on Wednesday. It occurred at a depth of 170 km, according to a statement by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). In a post on X, the NCS said, "EQ of M: 3.7, On: 20/08/2025 02:38:23 IST, Lat: 29.86 N, Long: 71.09 E, Depth: 170 Km, Location: Pakistan." Similarly, an earthquake of magnitude 5.2 hit Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday, as per the Seismic Network of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)'s statement quoted by Dawn. It stated that the quake was experienced in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, KP's Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, and Abbottabad. In a press release of the PMD, it was confirmed that the quake originated at 10:20 am (local time) and the epicentre was the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, at a depth of 190km. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority of the Punjab reported that the earthquake was also experienced in the province's divisions of Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, Sahiwal and Sargodha, as per the Dawn report. No casualties reported KP's Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Faizi confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far and no emergency has been declared. Pakistan lies on the three major tectonic plates that include the Eurasian, Arabian, and Indian, which form five seismic zones inside the country. The overlap of several fault lines makes tectonic movements a recurring phenomenon in the region. The Hindu Kush region, considered among the most active seismic zones in the world, lies at the meeting point of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Their ongoing collision frequently triggers earthquakes, including rare deep-focus quakes that can occur at depths exceeding 200 km, according to the US Geological Survey. Also read: Massive earthquake likely to hit Delhi in future? Here's what disaster management authority says

Pakistan is a part of the three major tectonic plates that include the Eurasian, Arabian, and Indian, which have five seismic zones. The overlap of several fault lines makes tectonic movements a recurring phenomenon in the region.

3.7-magnitude earthquake hits Pakistan a day after 5.2 tremor shook Islamabad

Journalist and close aide of Pakistan Prime Minister Najam Sethi is known to be vocal about his thoughts was seen attacking his country’s defence capabilities. In a recent interview with news outlet Samaa TV, he highlighted the fact that Islamabad does not have S-400s or any missile interceptors like the Iron Dome. His comments reflect Pakistan's vulnerabilities in the aftermath of the cross-border fighting with India. After the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, Pakistan did not show any intent to take action against the perpetrators.&nbsp;&nbsp;"India has demonstrated this time that with the missile technology and missile accuracy, they were able to target both your bases and offices of so-called freedom fighters. They have demonstrated that (precision strikes) weather via air or ground attack," said Sethi.&nbsp;"The biggest threat is that if they (India) launch a missile strike against your air bases, where your planes are parked, a lot of damage can happen," he added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a> Senior Pakistani journalist and political commentator Najam Sethi has bluntly exposed Islamabad’s vulnerabilities, admitting that the country has no credible missile defence system to counter Indian strikes. He also admitted that Indian forces, in May7-10… <a href="https://t.co/iQr8mip8jk">pic.twitter.com/iQr8mip8jk</a>&mdash; Manoj Rawat🇮🇳 (@SeaSkipper) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeaSkipper/status/1957762284593487937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Journalist and close aide of Pakistan Prime Minister Najam Sethi is known to be vocal about his thoughts was seen attacking his country’s defence capabilities.

Journalist and close aide of Pakistan Prime Minister Najam Sethi is known to be vocal about his thoughts was seen attacking his country’s defence capabilities. In a recent interview with news outlet Samaa TV, he highlighted the fact that Islamabad does not have S-400s or any missile interceptors like the Iron Dome. His comments reflect Pakistan's vulnerabilities in the aftermath of the cross-border fighting with India. After the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, Pakistan did not show any intent to take action against the perpetrators. "India has demonstrated this time that with the missile technology and missile accuracy, they were able to target both your bases and offices of so-called freedom fighters. They have demonstrated that (precision strikes) weather via air or ground attack," said Sethi. "The biggest threat is that if they (India) launch a missile strike against your air bases, where your planes are parked, a lot of damage can happen," he added.

Journalist and close aide of Pakistan Prime Minister Najam Sethi is known to be vocal about his thoughts was seen attacking his country’s defence capabilities.

'Biggest threat is that if India launches a missile strike': Pakistan PM's aide questions Islamabad's defence capabilties

US President Donald Trump's administration has a new plan to deter illegal immigrants. According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the US-Mexico border is going to be painted black so that it gets hotter in the sun and becomes difficult to scale the wall for people looking to cross the border. The plan is being carried out on "specific request" of President Trump, said Noem during a press conference held at the border wall in Santa Teresa, New Mexico on Tuesday (Aug 19).&nbsp;While speaking to reporters Noem explained &nbsp;"That is specifically at the request of the president, who understands that in the hot temperatures down here when something is painted black it gets even warmer and it will make it even harder for people to climb. So we are going to be painting the entire southern border wall black to make sure that we encourage individuals to not come into our country illegally."&nbsp;While U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks, who was present at the event said black paint will also help protect the steel structure from rust or any other such damage.&nbsp;Fortify the border wall&nbsp;&nbsp;Building the border was high on Trump's agenda during his first term. His second term is more focused on mass deportation and arrests in the interiors of the country. However, Homeland Security will get about $46 billion to complete the wall after it was passed by Congress in the Trump-backed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”.&nbsp;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>&nbsp;The majority of the funds sanctioned this summer will go toward securing the southern border and deporting migrants who are in the country illegally.&nbsp;&nbsp;The DHS chief Banks said that more security feature like “technology, cameras, sensors", will be added to the border wall. &nbsp;

Building the border was high on Trumps agenda during his first term. His second term largely focuses on mass deportation and arrests in the interiors of the country. 

US President Donald Trump's administration has a new plan to deter illegal immigrants. According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the US-Mexico border is going to be painted black so that it gets hotter in the sun and becomes difficult to scale the wall for people looking to cross the border. The plan is being carried out on "specific request" of President Trump, said Noem during a press conference held at the border wall in Santa Teresa, New Mexico on Tuesday (Aug 19). While speaking to reporters Noem explained "That is specifically at the request of the president, who understands that in the hot temperatures down here when something is painted black it gets even warmer and it will make it even harder for people to climb. So we are going to be painting the entire southern border wall black to make sure that we encourage individuals to not come into our country illegally." While U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks, who was present at the event said black paint will also help protect the steel structure from rust or any other such damage. Fortify the border wall Building the border was high on Trump's agenda during his first term. His second term is more focused on mass deportation and arrests in the interiors of the country. However, Homeland Security will get about $46 billion to complete the wall after it was passed by Congress in the Trump-backed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”. Also Read: Trump shows 'Trump 2028' hats to European leaders amid Russia-Ukraine war discussion: What message was he sending The majority of the funds sanctioned this summer will go toward securing the southern border and deporting migrants who are in the country illegally. The DHS chief Banks said that more security feature like “technology, cameras, sensors", will be added to the border wall.

Building the border was high on Trump's agenda during his first term. His second term largely focuses on mass deportation and arrests in the interiors of the country.&nbsp;

'Paint US-Mexico wall black, so it is too hot to climb': Trump administration's new plan to deter illegal immigration

Amid back-to-back meetings of United States President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin and European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the White House shared an image of the US President showing his MAGA hats to world leaders. The image went viral on social media, with Trump supporters praising him for showing strength in front of leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and his critics claiming that it is a subtle message to the world that Trump might not leave the White House. At a summit largely focused on the war in Ukraine, Trump unexpectedly turned the spotlight onto himself by unveiling a collection of slogan-bearing hats to European leaders. While Trump has yet not been able to strike a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war that he claimed he would end in two days, his photo-op sends a deeper political message to his base in the US and the leaders of the world.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-otherwise-i-don-t-care-trump-says-good-relationship-with-putin-only-matters-if-it-ends-ukraine-war-us-president-trump-zelensky-meeting-1755619698630">Trump says 'good relationship' with Putin only matters if it ends Ukraine war</a><h2>What message did Trump want to give world leaders by showing off his hats?</h2>Critics commented that the gesture, though seemingly lighthearted, carried deeper political undertones. The caps bore phrases such as “4 More Years,” “Trump 2028,” and “Trump Was Right About Everything” and “Gulf of America”. For Trump, who has long used the red MAGA hat as a signature symbol of his movement, these new versions were not mere accessories but statements of intent in front of the world leaders, critics claimed. By showcasing them in such a setting, Trump seems to have accomplished several goals. He reinforced his personal brand, ensured he dominated the stage, and created a moment where the spotlight shifted to him and his ambitions and not the diplomatic discussions. More importantly, the move was aimed at an audience beyond the summit room—his supporters back in the United States. The images resonate with his base, energising them with signals of strength and continuity.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-says-he-is-ready-to-hold-elections-lays-out-conditions-for-fresh-polls-wion-1755636242301/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-says-he-is-ready-to-hold-elections-lays-out-conditions-for-fresh-polls-wion-1755636242301/embed</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Almost as if Trump is seeding the idea. <a href="https://t.co/eFhIFC1npF">https://t.co/eFhIFC1npF</a> Trump is making it a point to show off his “4 more years” and “Trump 2028” hats to every world leader that visits the White House. <a href="https://t.co/T1OB5KPnvQ">pic.twitter.com/T1OB5KPnvQ</a>&mdash; Nancy Chester (@AmethystNancy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmethystNancy/status/1957866464859549980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Republican president has time and again expressed his desire to run for the presidency for the third time, even suggesting methods to achieve it. In an interview in April, he agreed that his Vice President, JD Vance, can run for the Presidency and give up the post after the elections to pave the way for him. He also suggested that his legal team can find ways to interpret the 22nd Amendment. The US Constitution under the 22nd Amendment bars any individual from running for the presidency for the third time. More recently, Trump changed his stance on running for the presidency for the third time and hinted at Vance and Marco Rubio's team for 2028. However, the deliberate step by the White House to share a photo of Trump showing MAGA hats to world leaders with ‘Trump 2028’ visible at the top, reignited conversations around Trump's wish to be the president for the third time.&nbsp;

At a Ukraine-focused summit, Trump drew attention by displaying hats with slogans like “4 More Years” and “Trump 2028” to world leaders. Critics say it was a strategic move to shift focus to his political ambitions and send a message of strength to his supporters back home.

Amid back-to-back meetings of United States President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin and European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the White House shared an image of the US President showing his MAGA hats to world leaders. The image went viral on social media, with Trump supporters praising him for showing strength in front of leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and his critics claiming that it is a subtle message to the world that Trump might not leave the White House. At a summit largely focused on the war in Ukraine, Trump unexpectedly turned the spotlight onto himself by unveiling a collection of slogan-bearing hats to European leaders. While Trump has yet not been able to strike a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war that he claimed he would end in two days, his photo-op sends a deeper political message to his base in the US and the leaders of the world. Read More | Trump says 'good relationship' with Putin only matters if it ends Ukraine war What message did Trump want to give world leaders by showing off his hats? Critics commented that the gesture, though seemingly lighthearted, carried deeper political undertones. The caps bore phrases such as “4 More Years,” “Trump 2028,” and “Trump Was Right About Everything” and “Gulf of America”. For Trump, who has long used the red MAGA hat as a signature symbol of his movement, these new versions were not mere accessories but statements of intent in front of the world leaders, critics claimed. By showcasing them in such a setting, Trump seems to have accomplished several goals. He reinforced his personal brand, ensured he dominated the stage, and created a moment where the spotlight shifted to him and his ambitions and not the diplomatic discussions. More importantly, the move was aimed at an audience beyond the summit room—his supporters back in the United States. The images resonate with his base, energising them with signals of strength and continuity. https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-says-he-is-ready-to-hold-elections-lays-out-conditions-for-fresh-polls-wion-1755636242301/embed

At a Ukraine-focused summit, Trump drew attention by displaying hats with slogans like “4 More Years” and “Trump 2028” to world leaders. Critics say it was a strategic move to shift focus to his political ambitions and send a message of strength to his supporters back home.

Trump shows 'Trump 2028' hats to European leaders amid Russia-Ukraine war discussion: What message was he sending

A flight from Greece to Düsseldorf started spewing fire soon after taking off, giving passengers the scare of their lives, who thought they were going to die and started sending goodbye messages to families and friends. The incident happened on a Condor Airlines Boeing 757-300 that left Corfu with 300 people on board on Saturday. Right after takeoff, the plane's right engine started spitting fire and smoke. A video captured from the ground shows the plane on fire. The fire got so bad that the smoke spread all around the plane and covered the windows. Passengers started panicking and sent their "final message" to loved ones. The pilot turned around the plane and made an emergency landing in Brindisi, Italy, as everyone heaved a sigh of relief after escaping their worst fears. A passenger recounted the horror to German newspaper Bild, saying that they heard a sudden loud noise, after which flames started shooting out of the engine. "I sent goodbye messages, thinking it was over. It was a horrible experience," they said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/japan-airlines-boeing-dreamliner-shanghai-tokyo-plummets-26-000-feet-mid-air-1751435726235">Shanghai-Tokyo Boeing plummets 26,000 feet, panicked passengers write goodbye letters and wills</a>&nbsp;<h2>What caused Condor plane to catch fire?</h2>Reports suggest that the fire was triggered by a bird hit, while some mentioned that the engine of the plane exploded. Condor Airlines said that there was no explosion and the fire was caused by a "disturbance in air flow" to the jet. It added that a reaction in the combustion chamber had become more visible. The airline further said that all the passengers were safe. It told Mirror that Flight DE3665, travelling “from Corfu to Dusseldorf was diverted to Brindisi on 16 August 2025” because of "a parameter indication outside the normal range caused by a disturbance in the air flow supply to the engine." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-hours-after-deadly-ahmedabad-plane-crash-another-air-india-flight-dropped-900-feet-during-takeoff-shocking-details-inside-1751359923772">Just hours after deadly Ahmedabad plane crash, another Air India flight dropped 900 feet during takeoff</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2>Condor sent another plane for the passengers</h2>The plane landed at around 8:15 pm at Brindisi Airport, "with 273 guests and eight crew members" who got off the plane normally. Another plane left on August 17 to bring the passengers to Düsseldorf. This meant they had to spend the night in Brindisi, where sufficient accommodation wasn't available. The airline said, "Unfortunately, there was insufficient hotel capacity in Brindisi, meaning that not all guests could be accommodated in hotels." It provided "additional vouchers and blankets" at the airport, "and a few shops were allowed to remain open to provide supplies."

The Condor flight from Greece to Düsseldorf was seen spitting fire in the sky. With 300 people on board, the pilot quickly turned around the plane and made an emergency landing in Italy. The airline revealed the reason for the fire. 

A flight from Greece to Düsseldorf started spewing fire soon after taking off, giving passengers the scare of their lives, who thought they were going to die and started sending goodbye messages to families and friends. The incident happened on a Condor Airlines Boeing 757-300 that left Corfu with 300 people on board on Saturday. Right after takeoff, the plane's right engine started spitting fire and smoke. A video captured from the ground shows the plane on fire. The fire got so bad that the smoke spread all around the plane and covered the windows. Passengers started panicking and sent their "final message" to loved ones. The pilot turned around the plane and made an emergency landing in Brindisi, Italy, as everyone heaved a sigh of relief after escaping their worst fears. A passenger recounted the horror to German newspaper Bild, saying that they heard a sudden loud noise, after which flames started shooting out of the engine. "I sent goodbye messages, thinking it was over. It was a horrible experience," they said. Also Read: Shanghai-Tokyo Boeing plummets 26,000 feet, panicked passengers write goodbye letters and wills What caused Condor plane to catch fire? Reports suggest that the fire was triggered by a bird hit, while some mentioned that the engine of the plane exploded. Condor Airlines said that there was no explosion and the fire was caused by a "disturbance in air flow" to the jet. It added that a reaction in the combustion chamber had become more visible. The airline further said that all the passengers were safe. It told Mirror that Flight DE3665, travelling “from Corfu to Dusseldorf was diverted to Brindisi on 16 August 2025” because of "a parameter indication outside the normal range caused by a disturbance in the air flow supply to the engine." Also Read: Just hours after deadly Ahmedabad plane crash, another Air India flight dropped 900 feet during takeoff Condor sent another plane for the passengers The plane landed at around 8:15 pm at Brindisi Airport, "with 273 guests and eight crew members" who got off the plane normally. Another plane left on August 17 to bring the passengers to Düsseldorf. This meant they had to spend the night in Brindisi, where sufficient accommodation wasn't available. The airline said, "Unfortunately, there was insufficient hotel capacity in Brindisi, meaning that not all guests could be accommodated in hotels." It provided "additional vouchers and blankets" at the airport, "and a few shops were allowed to remain open to provide supplies."

The Condor flight from Greece to Düsseldorf was seen spitting fire in the sky. With 300 people on board, the pilot quickly turned around the plane and made an emergency landing in Italy. The airline revealed the reason for the fire.&nbsp;

'I sent goodbye messages': Plane from Greece spits out fire as scared passengers send 'final' messages

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin should hold a direct meeting without his involvement. Speaking during an appearance on "The Mark Levin Show" on Tuesday evening, he said that he had a "very successful meeting" with President Zelensky and that he thinks "it would be better if they met without me, just to see — I want to see what goes on." "You know, they had a hard relationship very bad, very bad relationship," he noted, adding that he would step in if needed.<h2>Will Trump be part of the Zelensky-Putin meeting?</h2>Trump proposed that the presidents of the two enemy nations should have the much-anticipated peace talks one on one, without him. However, he commented that if required, "and it probably would be", he would step in. “And now we'll see how they do. And if necessary — and it probably would be — but if necessary, I'll go, and I'll probably be able to get it closed. I just want to see what happens at the meeting. So they're in the process of setting it up, and we're going to see what happens.”This comes as Trump, in a Fox News interview, revealed that he wanted to bring peace between Ukraine and Russia so that he could "get to heaven".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-a-dictator-or-popular-war-president-ukrainian-prez-says-elections-impossible-during-war-but-could-he-win-if-held-1755564255636">Zelensky, a 'dictator' or popular war president? Ukrainian Prez tells Trump elections impossible during war — but could he win if held?</a><h2>Preparation for Putin-Zelensky meeting underway</h2>White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, meanwhile, has confirmed that preparations for a potential Zelensky-Putin meeting are underway, with "many options" for a location being explored. Multiple European countries have offered to host the talks. Switzerland and Austria said they would allow Putin to attend discussions despite the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant. French President Emmanuel Macron also floated the idea of holding a peace summit in a neutral European country, possibly Switzerland.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-promises-zelensky-security-guarantees-but-will-ukraine-be-forced-into-land-concessions-here-s-what-was-said-during-vital-washington-meet-1755568835632">Trump promises Zelensky security guarantees, but will Ukraine be forced into land concessions? Here's what was said during vital Washington meet</a>Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated his willingness to meet Zelensky on a phone call with Trump. Talking to Fox News, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Putin telling Trump that he would agree to sit down with Zelensky was "a big deal".He stated that "I mean, I’m not saying they’re going to leave that room best friends. I’m not saying they’re going to leave that room with a peace deal. But I think the fact that people are now talking to each other – this wasn’t happening for three and a half years. This was a stalemated war of death and destruction."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-trump-meet-behind-the-scenes-and-smiles-at-the-white-house-1755626325532/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-trump-meet-behind-the-scenes-and-smiles-at-the-white-house-1755626325532/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said Ukraine’s Zelensky and Russia’s Putin should meet one-on-one without him, though he’s ready to step in “if necessary”. The White House confirmed preparations are underway, with multiple European nations offering to host. 

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin should hold a direct meeting without his involvement. Speaking during an appearance on "The Mark Levin Show" on Tuesday evening, he said that he had a "very successful meeting" with President Zelensky and that he thinks "it would be better if they met without me, just to see — I want to see what goes on." "You know, they had a hard relationship very bad, very bad relationship," he noted, adding that he would step in if needed. Will Trump be part of the Zelensky-Putin meeting? Trump proposed that the presidents of the two enemy nations should have the much-anticipated peace talks one on one, without him. However, he commented that if required, "and it probably would be", he would step in. “And now we'll see how they do. And if necessary — and it probably would be — but if necessary, I'll go, and I'll probably be able to get it closed. I just want to see what happens at the meeting. So they're in the process of setting it up, and we're going to see what happens.” This comes as Trump, in a Fox News interview, revealed that he wanted to bring peace between Ukraine and Russia so that he could "get to heaven". Also read | Zelensky, a 'dictator' or popular war president? Ukrainian Prez tells Trump elections impossible during war — but could he win if held? Preparation for Putin-Zelensky meeting underway White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, meanwhile, has confirmed that preparations for a potential Zelensky-Putin meeting are underway, with "many options" for a location being explored. Multiple European countries have offered to host the talks. Switzerland and Austria said they would allow Putin to attend discussions despite the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant. French President Emmanuel Macron also floated the idea of holding a peace summit in a neutral European country, possibly Switzerland. Also read | Trump promises Zelensky security guarantees, but will Ukraine be forced into land concessions? Here's what was said during vital Washington meet Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated his willingness to meet Zelensky on a phone call with Trump. Talking to Fox News, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Putin telling Trump that he would agree to sit down with Zelensky was "a big deal". He stated that "I mean, I’m not saying they’re going to leave that room best friends. I’m not saying they’re going to leave that room with a peace deal. But I think the fact that people are now talking to each other – this wasn’t happening for three and a half years. This was a stalemated war of death and destruction." https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-trump-meet-behind-the-scenes-and-smiles-at-the-white-house-1755626325532/embed

Trump said Ukraine’s Zelensky and Russia’s Putin should meet one-on-one without him, though he’s ready to step in “if necessary”. The White House confirmed preparations are underway, with multiple European nations offering to host.&nbsp;

Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting?

US President Donald Trump, in an astonishing statement, said on August 19 that the deal between Russia and Ukraine would help him get to heaven. Giving an interview to Fox News, the American president said &nbsp;his odds of making it through the pearly gates are currently low, and a peace deal would get him there.&nbsp;The 79-year-old has also invested a lot in ending the war between the two nations to increase his chances of getting the Nobel Peace Prize. "I want to try and get to heaven if possible," Trump told Fox News morning show "Fox &amp; Friends." 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>&nbsp;"I hear I'm not doing well -- I hear I'm really at the bottom of the totem pole! But if I can get to heaven this will be one of the reasons," he added.<h2>Trump LOVES two things most - tariff and Nobel Peace Prize</h2>Former Indian diplomat Rakesh Sood said weeks ago that the American president loves two things the most: tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted that Trump's move must be a prize India has to pay for not endorsing him for the peace prize, as done by Benjamin Netanyahu. Talking to the news agency ANI, Sood said, "There are two things that President Trump loves - One is tariffs, and the second is the Nobel Peace Prize, so he will do anything to get to the bottom of these two."&nbsp;The former diplomat said that Trump many a time claimed credit for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, but India did not give any importance to his claims. "We've not given him comfort on the Nobel, so I guess we are facing the tariffs. We'll see how we deal with it," Sood said.

US President Donald Trump, in an astonishing statement, said on August 19 that the deal between Russia and Ukraine would help him get to heaven.

US President Donald Trump, in an astonishing statement, said on August 19 that the deal between Russia and Ukraine would help him get to heaven. Giving an interview to Fox News, the American president said his odds of making it through the pearly gates are currently low, and a peace deal would get him there. The 79-year-old has also invested a lot in ending the war between the two nations to increase his chances of getting the Nobel Peace Prize. "I want to try and get to heaven if possible," Trump told Fox News morning show "Fox & Friends." Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says "I hear I'm not doing well -- I hear I'm really at the bottom of the totem pole! But if I can get to heaven this will be one of the reasons," he added. Trump LOVES two things most - tariff and Nobel Peace Prize Former Indian diplomat Rakesh Sood said weeks ago that the American president loves two things the most: tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted that Trump's move must be a prize India has to pay for not endorsing him for the peace prize, as done by Benjamin Netanyahu. Talking to the news agency ANI, Sood said, "There are two things that President Trump loves - One is tariffs, and the second is the Nobel Peace Prize, so he will do anything to get to the bottom of these two." The former diplomat said that Trump many a time claimed credit for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, but India did not give any importance to his claims. "We've not given him comfort on the Nobel, so I guess we are facing the tariffs. We'll see how we deal with it," Sood said.

US President Donald Trump, in an astonishing statement, said on August 19 that the deal between Russia and Ukraine would help him get to heaven.

Trump says Ukraine peace deal would get him to HEAVEN- yes, you read it right

The White House officially made an account on the social media platform TikTok on August 19. The Trump administration is all set to take advantage of the 150 million US users to spread the messages of the American president. Trump has always praised the app for how it helped him gain popularity among young voters when he defeated Democrat Kamala Harris in the November 2024 presidential election. “The Trump administration is committed to communicating the historic successes President Trump has delivered to the American people with as many audiences and platforms as possible," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said as the site went live."President Trump’s message dominated TikTok during his presidential campaign, and we’re excited to build upon those successes and communicate in a way no other administration has before,” she said.&nbsp;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>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">👀👀👀<a href="https://t.co/zwDqYQR3PP">https://t.co/zwDqYQR3PP</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1957926495923347724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, a White House official told Reuters that the account under the name @whitehouse, began operation on Tuesday evening, with the aim of communicating the president's policies.&nbsp;&nbsp;This came after a wave of panic in June when Trump announced the app will be blocked in the US after June 19.&nbsp;"The president has said he’s willing to (announce another extension) if it has to happen,” a government official familiar with Trump’s thinking told On The Money of The Post on Tuesday (June 3). The official further said that China is using TikTok as a “bargaining chip,” noting, “The Chinese just want to hold this up as leverage in the trade talks.”&nbsp;"It’ll be protected. It’ll be very strongly protected. But if it needs an extension, I would be willing to give it an extension,” Trump had told NBC News while agreeing that he has a “little sweet spot” for TikTok in his heart.

The White House officially made an account on the social media platform TikTok on August 19. The Trump administration is all set to take advantage of the 150 million US users to spread the messages of the American president.

The White House officially made an account on the social media platform TikTok on August 19. The Trump administration is all set to take advantage of the 150 million US users to spread the messages of the American president. Trump has always praised the app for how it helped him gain popularity among young voters when he defeated Democrat Kamala Harris in the November 2024 presidential election. “The Trump administration is committed to communicating the historic successes President Trump has delivered to the American people with as many audiences and platforms as possible," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said as the site went live. "President Trump’s message dominated TikTok during his presidential campaign, and we’re excited to build upon those successes and communicate in a way no other administration has before,” she said. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says

The White House officially made an account on the social media platform TikTok on August 19. The Trump administration is all set to take advantage of the 150 million US users to spread the messages of the American president.

White House is now on TikTok? How will Trump leverage the 150mn US users

More than 50 people were killed on Tuesday in western Afghanistan when a passenger bus carrying migrants recently returned from Iran collided with a truck and a motorcycle, local police and a provincial official said.&nbsp;Police in Herat province said the accident was caused due to the bus's "excessive speed and negligence".&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;The bus was carrying Afghans recently returned from Iran and en route to the capital Kabul, provincial official Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told AFP.&nbsp;The returnees are part of a massive wave of Afghans deported or forced out of Iran in recent months.&nbsp;"All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," said Saeedi, referring to a border crossing point. Police in Guzara district outside Herat city, where the accident occurred, said a motorcycle was also involved. The majority of those who died were on the bus, with two people travelling in the truck killed and another two on the motorcycle. Traffic accidents are common in Afghanistan, due in part to poor roads after decades of conflict, dangerous driving on highways, and a lack of regulation. In December last year, two bus accidents involving a fuel tanker and a truck on a highway through central Afghanistan killed at least 52.

The bus was carrying Afghans recently returned from Iran and en route to the capital Kabul, provincial official Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told AFP.



More than 50 people were killed on Tuesday in western Afghanistan when a passenger bus carrying migrants recently returned from Iran collided with a truck and a motorcycle, local police and a provincial official said. Police in Herat province said the accident was caused due to the bus's "excessive speed and negligence". Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points The bus was carrying Afghans recently returned from Iran and en route to the capital Kabul, provincial official Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told AFP. The returnees are part of a massive wave of Afghans deported or forced out of Iran in recent months. "All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," said Saeedi, referring to a border crossing point. Police in Guzara district outside Herat city, where the accident occurred, said a motorcycle was also involved. The majority of those who died were on the bus, with two people travelling in the truck killed and another two on the motorcycle. Traffic accidents are common in Afghanistan, due in part to poor roads after decades of conflict, dangerous driving on highways, and a lack of regulation. In December last year, two bus accidents involving a fuel tanker and a truck on a highway through central Afghanistan killed at least 52.

The bus was carrying Afghans recently returned from Iran and en route to the capital Kabul, provincial official Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told AFP.&nbsp;

Over 50 people killed after bus hits truck in Afghanistan

An Israeli government official was charged with soliciting a minor girl in Las Vegas. Police said the accused, Tom Artiom Alexandrovich, brought a condom to have "sexual contact" with the 15-year-old girl. He was reported to be a division head at the Israel National Cyber Directorate and was arrested after a sting operation by police aimed at online users seeking to sexually prey on children.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-in-a-week-or-two-will-know-if-we-can-solve-this-trump-on-russia-ukraine-ceasefire-1755552131231"> ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire</a>&nbsp;“The sexual contact included bringing a condom and taking the decoy to ‘Cirque du Soleil’,” which stages elaborate shows along the Las Vegas Strip, said police documents seen by 8NewsNow.&nbsp;It was also reported that the man chatted with an officer posing as a teenager before he was arrested. The details into the came came after the state department denied the US government played any role in releasing the Israeli official.&nbsp;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>&nbsp;A swarm of commentary online speculated that Alexanderovich had been shielded by the government at a time when Donald Trump's administration is struggling to contain criticism over unfulfilled promises to release all files related to Jefferey Epstein case.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-pause-his-meeting-with-zelensky-to-call-putin-here-s-what-we-know-1755554318148">Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;“The Department of State is aware that Tom Artiom Alexandrovich, an Israeli citizen, was arrested in Las Vegas and given a court date for charges related to soliciting sex electronically from a minor,” the state department wrote on X. “He did not claim diplomatic immunity and was released by a state judge pending a court date. Any claims that the US government intervened are false," the post added.

An Israeli officer was arrested in Las Vegas for trying to have sexual contact with a 15-year-old girl. Police said that the accused also brought a condom to the location where he was going to meet the minor.

An Israeli government official was charged with soliciting a minor girl in Las Vegas. Police said the accused, Tom Artiom Alexandrovich, brought a condom to have "sexual contact" with the 15-year-old girl. He was reported to be a division head at the Israel National Cyber Directorate and was arrested after a sting operation by police aimed at online users seeking to sexually prey on children. Also read: ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire “The sexual contact included bringing a condom and taking the decoy to ‘Cirque du Soleil’,” which stages elaborate shows along the Las Vegas Strip, said police documents seen by 8NewsNow. It was also reported that the man chatted with an officer posing as a teenager before he was arrested. The details into the came came after the state department denied the US government played any role in releasing the Israeli official. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says A swarm of commentary online speculated that Alexanderovich had been shielded by the government at a time when Donald Trump's administration is struggling to contain criticism over unfulfilled promises to release all files related to Jefferey Epstein case. Also read: Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know “The Department of State is aware that Tom Artiom Alexandrovich, an Israeli citizen, was arrested in Las Vegas and given a court date for charges related to soliciting sex electronically from a minor,” the state department wrote on X. “He did not claim diplomatic immunity and was released by a state judge pending a court date. Any claims that the US government intervened are false," the post added.

An Israeli officer was arrested in Las Vegas for trying to have sexual contact with a 15-year-old girl. Police said that the accused also brought a condom to the location where he was going to meet the minor.

He brought a condom? Israeli officer meets 15-year-old for 'sexual contact', nabbed

A woman from Peru has been nabbed for allegedly smuggling drugs using sex toys by hiding them in her underwear. The 42-year-old unnamed woman was arrested in Bali for allegedly smuggling cocaine into the Indonesian resort island. Authorities said she arrived at Bali’s international airport from Qatar on 12 August when authorities became suspicious. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-pause-his-meeting-with-zelensky-to-call-putin-here-s-what-we-know-1755554318148">Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;“The customs officers suspected her behaviour, and after consulting with the police, they did a further check on her,” Bali police narcotics unit director, Radiant, who like many Indonesians has one name, told a press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;The authority seized around 1.4 kg of cocaine in the sex toy that she had hidden inside her genitals. &nbsp;Police also accused her of smuggling dozens of ecstasy pills.During the investigation, the woman told the police that a man, whom she met on the dark web, hired her to transport the drug to Indonesia. She said she met him in April, and he offered her &nbsp;$20,000 in exchange.&nbsp;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>&nbsp;The woman has been charged under Indonesia’s harsh narcotics law and could face the death penalty if found guilty. This after a Baki court sentenced a 46-year-old Argentine to seven years in prison after she was found guilty of smuggling 244 grams of cocaine wrapped with a condom that she hid inside her genitals. Indonesia is a country with one of the toughest laws against drugs.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-in-a-week-or-two-will-know-if-we-can-solve-this-trump-on-russia-ukraine-ceasefire-1755552131231"> ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire</a>

A woman, 42, was nabbed in Bali for allegedly trying to smuggle cocaine using a sex toy that she hid in her underwear. She said a man she met on the dark web told her to do so.

A woman from Peru has been nabbed for allegedly smuggling drugs using sex toys by hiding them in her underwear. The 42-year-old unnamed woman was arrested in Bali for allegedly smuggling cocaine into the Indonesian resort island. Authorities said she arrived at Bali’s international airport from Qatar on 12 August when authorities became suspicious. Also read: Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know “The customs officers suspected her behaviour, and after consulting with the police, they did a further check on her,” Bali police narcotics unit director, Radiant, who like many Indonesians has one name, told a press conference. Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points The authority seized around 1.4 kg of cocaine in the sex toy that she had hidden inside her genitals. Police also accused her of smuggling dozens of ecstasy pills. During the investigation, the woman told the police that a man, whom she met on the dark web, hired her to transport the drug to Indonesia. She said she met him in April, and he offered her $20,000 in exchange. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says The woman has been charged under Indonesia’s harsh narcotics law and could face the death penalty if found guilty. This after a Baki court sentenced a 46-year-old Argentine to seven years in prison after she was found guilty of smuggling 244 grams of cocaine wrapped with a condom that she hid inside her genitals. Indonesia is a country with one of the toughest laws against drugs. Also read: ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire

A woman, 42, was nabbed in Bali for allegedly trying to smuggle cocaine using a sex toy that she hid in her underwear. She said a man she met on the dark web told her to do so.

Woman ‘smuggles’ cocaine using sex toy by hiding it in her underwear - and there’s a DARK WEB angle

Donald Trump's National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, on Tuesday (August 19), said she directed the revocation of security clearances of 37 current and former intelligence professionals whom she accused of "politicising and manipulating intelligence."&nbsp;Those impacted include people who were involved in conducting an assessment of Russia’s efforts to influence the 2016 election. They were also part of former President Joe Biden’s National Security Council.&nbsp;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>&nbsp;In a post on X on August 19, Gabbard wrote, "Being entrusted with a security clearance is a privilege, not a right. Those in the Intelligence Community who betray their oath to the Constitution and put their own interests ahead of the interests of the American people have broken the sacred trust they promised to uphold." The memo as circulated to multiple US intelligence communities but has no specific evidence in it about any wrongdoing by the officials, people familiar with the matter told CNN. The people cited in the memo held positions across a range of government agencies, and it’s unclear whether all still held an active clearance at the time of Gabbard’s announcement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-pause-his-meeting-with-zelensky-to-call-putin-here-s-what-we-know-1755554318148">Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;The move was the latest in Trump's efforts to discredit the intelligence community’s 2017 assessment that Russia sought to intervene in the 2016 presidential election in support of Trump.Mark Zaid, a national security attorney whose own security clearance was previously revoked by Trump, told CNN, “These are unlawful and unconstitutional decisions that deviate from well-settled, decades old laws and policies that sought to protect against just this type of action."&nbsp;“For this administration to claim these individuals politicized or weaponized intelligence blatantly wreaks of hypocrisy. This Administration would make Senator McCarthy proud," he added.

US National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has revoked the security clearances of 37 current and former intelligence professionals on August 19. She accused them of politicising and manipulating intelligence.

Donald Trump's National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, on Tuesday (August 19), said she directed the revocation of security clearances of 37 current and former intelligence professionals whom she accused of "politicising and manipulating intelligence." Those impacted include people who were involved in conducting an assessment of Russia’s efforts to influence the 2016 election. They were also part of former President Joe Biden’s National Security Council. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says In a post on X on August 19, Gabbard wrote, "Being entrusted with a security clearance is a privilege, not a right. Those in the Intelligence Community who betray their oath to the Constitution and put their own interests ahead of the interests of the American people have broken the sacred trust they promised to uphold." The memo as circulated to multiple US intelligence communities but has no specific evidence in it about any wrongdoing by the officials, people familiar with the matter told CNN. The people cited in the memo held positions across a range of government agencies, and it’s unclear whether all still held an active clearance at the time of Gabbard’s announcement. Also read: Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know The move was the latest in Trump's efforts to discredit the intelligence community’s 2017 assessment that Russia sought to intervene in the 2016 presidential election in support of Trump. Mark Zaid, a national security attorney whose own security clearance was previously revoked by Trump, told CNN, “These are unlawful and unconstitutional decisions that deviate from well-settled, decades old laws and policies that sought to protect against just this type of action." “For this administration to claim these individuals politicized or weaponized intelligence blatantly wreaks of hypocrisy. This Administration would make Senator McCarthy proud," he added.

US National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has revoked the security clearances of 37 current and former intelligence professionals on August 19. She accused them of "politicising and manipulating intelligence."

Tulsi Gabbard revokes security clearances of 37 US intelligence officers - Here's why

After the US President Donald Trump announced a bilateral meeting between the Ukrainian Prewsidnet Volodmyr Zelensky and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, questions have been raised about the location of the meeting. The American president, in his post on Truth Social, said that it's up to the presidents of the two nations in war to decide where they would meet.&nbsp;"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.&nbsp;Meanwhile, on August 19, the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that "many options are being discussed" for the location of a possible peace summit between Putin and Zelensky. She confirmed during a press conference that Trump has ruled out sending US troops but may extend US air power as Western nations begin hashing out security guarantees for Ukraine before any potential summit with Russia.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;This came amid Switzerland's offer to host the Russia-Ukraine peace talks. The Swiss foreign ministers told CNN that the country was open to hosting a meeting between Putin and Zelensky.<h2>Budapest for trilateral meeting?</h2>Amid the entire discussion, a Trump administration official and a person close to the administration have told Politico that the White House had already fixed the location for a trilateral meeting between Trump, Zelensky, and Putin. &nbsp;The officials said that the meeting might take place in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.&nbsp;The &nbsp;US Secret Service is preparing for the summit in the Central European nation led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has been close with President Donald Trump since the American president’s first term in office, the report said.

Trump is reportedly going to hold a trilateral meeting with Zelensky and Putin in the Hungarian capital of Budapest. 



After the US President Donald Trump announced a bilateral meeting between the Ukrainian Prewsidnet Volodmyr Zelensky and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, questions have been raised about the location of the meeting. The American president, in his post on Truth Social, said that it's up to the presidents of the two nations in war to decide where they would meet. "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. Meanwhile, on August 19, the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that "many options are being discussed" for the location of a possible peace summit between Putin and Zelensky. She confirmed during a press conference that Trump has ruled out sending US troops but may extend US air power as Western nations begin hashing out security guarantees for Ukraine before any potential summit with Russia. Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points This came amid Switzerland's offer to host the Russia-Ukraine peace talks. The Swiss foreign ministers told CNN that the country was open to hosting a meeting between Putin and Zelensky. Budapest for trilateral meeting? Amid the entire discussion, a Trump administration official and a person close to the administration have told Politico that the White House had already fixed the location for a trilateral meeting between Trump, Zelensky, and Putin. The officials said that the meeting might take place in the Hungarian capital of Budapest. The US Secret Service is preparing for the summit in the Central European nation led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has been close with President Donald Trump since the American president’s first term in office, the report said.

Trump is reportedly going to hold a trilateral meeting with Zelensky and Putin in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.

Where will Putin, Zelensky meet? That's undecided, but Trump is ready with trilateral meeting location

Authorities IN Mexico have found six severed heads along a road in central part of the country on August 19. In violence that is rare in this part of Mexico, the remains were first reported by drivers using a road that links the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala, the prosecutors said. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-pause-his-meeting-with-zelensky-to-call-putin-here-s-what-we-know-1755554318148">Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;Police, the National Guard and the Jalisco State Prosecutor's Office deploy members to a cemetary in Tlaquepaque, in the western Mexican state of Jalisco, after the discovery of a suspected clandestine grave with human remains.&nbsp;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>&nbsp;The remains were first reported by drivers using a road that links the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala, the prosecutors said. Meanwhile, a separate head and human remains were found &nbsp;in the western city of Colima. The heads found in Tlaxcala belonged to men, the prosecutor's office said. An investigation has been launched into the matter.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, several local media reports said that &nbsp;at the site of the grisly find, there was a pamphlet blaming the violence on a settling of scores between gangs that rob fuel.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-in-a-week-or-two-will-know-if-we-can-solve-this-trump-on-russia-ukraine-ceasefire-1755552131231"> ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire</a>&nbsp;Both locations where the human remains were found are known for homing gangs that deal in drugs and fuel. The region is known to be more prone to drug-related brutality in Mexico. In recent months, AFP reported, bodies have been found in areas near the border between the two states.

Six severed heads found along road in Mexico, the government said, AFP reported. 


Authorities IN Mexico have found six severed heads along a road in central part of the country on August 19. In violence that is rare in this part of Mexico, the remains were first reported by drivers using a road that links the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala, the prosecutors said. Also read: Did Trump pause his meeting with Zelensky to call Putin? Here's what we know Police, the National Guard and the Jalisco State Prosecutor's Office deploy members to a cemetary in Tlaquepaque, in the western Mexican state of Jalisco, after the discovery of a suspected clandestine grave with human remains. Also read: Putin doesn't have 'courage' to meet Zelensky? German Chancellor says. Here's what Russian president says The remains were first reported by drivers using a road that links the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala, the prosecutors said. Meanwhile, a separate head and human remains were found in the western city of Colima. The heads found in Tlaxcala belonged to men, the prosecutor's office said. An investigation has been launched into the matter. Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points Meanwhile, several local media reports said that at the site of the grisly find, there was a pamphlet blaming the violence on a settling of scores between gangs that rob fuel. Also read: ‘In a week or two will know if we can solve this’: Trump on Russia-Ukraine ceasefire Both locations where the human remains were found are known for homing gangs that deal in drugs and fuel. The region is known to be more prone to drug-related brutality in Mexico. In recent months, AFP reported, bodies have been found in areas near the border between the two states.

Six severed heads found along road in Mexico, the government said, AFP reported.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Six severed heads, human remains found along road in Mexico; Investigation launched

Two bank executives, who worked during the presidential period of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, have made one of the big revelations of their terms in the White House. The bank officials, on the condition of anonymity, talked to Fox News and claimed that both Obama and Biden pressured them to deny services to conservatives like Donald Trump. The bombshell revelation came after the current American president's expected executive order to outlaw debanking. "Those pressures were very, very real. When your regulator gives you a suggestion, it’s not a suggestion; it’s an order. The political stuff is very real, those pressures are real," a senior banking executive told the American news channel.&nbsp;The officials said that the regulators under the Obama and Biden administration exploited the federal laws to fulfill their political objectives. One of the executives claimed that banks were pressured to deny services to certain industries as part of Operation Choke Point and Operation Choke Point 2.0.&nbsp;"When there’s ambiguity in the law, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and for a long time the beholder was the Obama and Biden administration," the official said.&nbsp;Operation Coke Point was a task force whose aim was to "choke out" legal companies disfavored by the Obama administration. It worked with bank regulators to label certain industries, including firearms sales, as "high risk."&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brahmaputra-dam-terrorism-and-taiwan-here-s-what-chinese-fm-wang-yi-s-discussed-during-his-visit-to-india-5-points-pm-narendra-modi-jaishankar-1755616731606"> Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points</a>&nbsp;Donald Trump ended the force in 2017 during his first term in theWhite House. But, a House Financial Services Committee accused last week that Joe Biden had rebooted the initiative and targeted crypto firms for debanking as part of "Operation Choke Point 2.0."<h2>Melania was targeted as well?</h2>First lady Melania Trump wrote in her memoir that she and her son Barron were debanked, as well. "I was shocked and dismayed to learn that my long‑time bank decided to terminate my account and deny my son the opportunity to open a new one.… This decision appeared to be rooted in political discrimination, raising serious concerns about civil rights violations," Melania wrote.<h2>'Brian was kissing my a** when I was president'</h2>Talking at an interview with the CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), the American president gave his own example, saying he had "many accounts" loaded with cash, but the banks did not take him as a customer.&nbsp;A journalist questioned Trump, "The Wall Street Journal is reporting that you're preparing an order to punish banks that discriminate against conservatives, including potentially the Bank of America ... Can you tell us about that executive order, what's in that?"&nbsp;The US president responded, saying, "Well, they did discriminate. I had JP Morgan Chase, and I had hundreds of millions of dollars in cash. I can see they want to do something bad if you don't have any money; they took people out. But now I'll give you an amazing example. I had hundreds of millions, I had many, many accounts, loaded up with cash, &nbsp;and they told me, 'I'm sorry, sir. We can't have you. You have 20 days to get out.' I said you gotta be kidding. I have been with you for 35-40 years."&nbsp;"I was never in this situation before. I never had anything like it," he added. He continued saying, "I call up Bank of America routinely and I speak to him, I speak to couple of people, and they had zero interest ... Brian (CEO of the bank) was kissing my a** when I was president and when I called him after I was president, to deposit, a billion dollars plus and a lot of other things ... he said 'we can't do it, no' ... and that's because the banks discriminated against me very badly, and I was very good to the banks," Trump added.&nbsp;What is debanking?&nbsp;Debanking is a practice under which banks either close the accounts and deny their services to individuals or businesses, often with no explanation. It was first introduced in the US under federal anti-money laundering laws and regulations. &nbsp;

As per two unnamed bank executives, Barack Obamaba and Joe Biden exploited the deferred laws to debank conservatives like Donald Trump to attain their political objectives. 

Two bank executives, who worked during the presidential period of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, have made one of the big revelations of their terms in the White House. The bank officials, on the condition of anonymity, talked to Fox News and claimed that both Obama and Biden pressured them to deny services to conservatives like Donald Trump. The bombshell revelation came after the current American president's expected executive order to outlaw debanking. "Those pressures were very, very real. When your regulator gives you a suggestion, it’s not a suggestion; it’s an order. The political stuff is very real, those pressures are real," a senior banking executive told the American news channel. The officials said that the regulators under the Obama and Biden administration exploited the federal laws to fulfill their political objectives. One of the executives claimed that banks were pressured to deny services to certain industries as part of Operation Choke Point and Operation Choke Point 2.0. "When there’s ambiguity in the law, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and for a long time the beholder was the Obama and Biden administration," the official said. Operation Coke Point was a task force whose aim was to "choke out" legal companies disfavored by the Obama administration. It worked with bank regulators to label certain industries, including firearms sales, as "high risk." Also read: Brahmaputra dam, terrorism and Taiwan: Here's what Chinese FM Wang Yi discussed during his visit to India | 5 points Donald Trump ended the force in 2017 during his first term in theWhite House. But, a House Financial Services Committee accused last week that Joe Biden had rebooted the initiative and targeted crypto firms for debanking as part of "Operation Choke Point 2.0." Melania was targeted as well? First lady Melania Trump wrote in her memoir that she and her son Barron were debanked, as well. "I was shocked and dismayed to learn that my long‑time bank decided to terminate my account and deny my son the opportunity to open a new one.… This decision appeared to be rooted in political discrimination, raising serious concerns about civil rights violations," Melania wrote. 'Brian was kissing my a** when I was president' Talking at an interview with the CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), the American president gave his own example, saying he had "many accounts" loaded with cash, but the banks did not take him as a customer. A journalist questioned Trump, "The Wall Street Journal is reporting that you're preparing an order to punish banks that discriminate against conservatives, including potentially the Bank of America ... Can you tell us about that executive order, what's in that?" The US president responded, saying, "Well, they did discriminate. I had JP Morgan Chase, and I had hundreds of millions of dollars in cash. I can see they want to do something bad if you don't have any money; they took people out. But now I'll give you an amazing example. I had hundreds of millions, I had many, many accounts, loaded up with cash, and they told me, 'I'm sorry, sir. We can't have you. You have 20 days to get out.' I said you gotta be kidding. I have been with you for 35-40 years." "I was never in this situation before. I never had anything like it," he added. He continued saying, "I call up Bank of America routinely and I speak to him, I speak to couple of people, and they had zero interest ... Brian (CEO of the bank) was kissing my a** when I was president and when I called him after I was president, to deposit, a billion dollars plus and a lot of other things ... he said 'we can't do it, no' ... and that's because the banks discriminated against me very badly, and I was very good to the banks," Trump added. What is debanking? Debanking is a practice under which banks either close the accounts and deny their services to individuals or businesses, often with no explanation. It was first introduced in the US under federal anti-money laundering laws and regulations.

As per two unnamed bank executives, Barack Obamaba and Joe Biden exploited the deferred laws to debank conservatives like Donald Trump to attain their political objectives.

'It’s not a suggestion, it’s an order': Obama, Biden pressured banks to deny services to Trump?

In a major step forward, India and China have agreed to work on a settlement of the boundary question and have decided to set up an expert group that will explore an early solution to boundary delimitation. The Ministry of External Affairs shared the information in a statement issued on Tuesday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and held discussions.&nbsp;The MEA said the two sides have also decided to resume direct flights at the earliest and increase the scale of Indian pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. India-China ties had hit a low after the Galwan clash in 2020 and a prolonged military standoff. However, there has been a marked uptick in ties since US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on India and China.&nbsp;“The two sides spoke positively of the progress made in the implementation of the important leader-level consensus in Kazan. They reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas,” the MEA said.&nbsp;<h2>Expert group to be set up to explore ‘early harvest’ in boundary delimitation</h2>&nbsp;“The two special representatives agreed on setting up an Expert Group, under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), to explore Early Harvest in boundary delimitation in the India-China border areas,” the statement said.&nbsp;WMCC, created in 2012, is a framework that helps India and China communicate and coordinate on border-related matters.&nbsp;Delimitation involves defining the boundary through legal and political means, without physical markers on the ground.&nbsp;<h2>Working group to be constituted for effective border management</h2>&nbsp;Wang Yi and Ajit Doval also decided that a working group would be set up under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs for effective border management to maintain peace and tranquility.&nbsp;Besides, both sides decided to use the existing diplomatic and military mechanisms for border management and will also discuss de-escalation, starting with its principles and modalities.&nbsp;After his meeting with Yi, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to finding a fair and mutually acceptable resolution to the boundary issue and stressed that stable and constructive relations between the two nations are essential for peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

Besides the breakthrough, the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said that the two sides have also decided to resume direct flights at the earliest and increase the scale of Indian pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

In a major step forward, India and China have agreed to work on a settlement of the boundary question and have decided to set up an expert group that will explore an early solution to boundary delimitation. The Ministry of External Affairs shared the information in a statement issued on Tuesday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and held discussions. The MEA said the two sides have also decided to resume direct flights at the earliest and increase the scale of Indian pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. India-China ties had hit a low after the Galwan clash in 2020 and a prolonged military standoff. However, there has been a marked uptick in ties since US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on India and China. “The two sides spoke positively of the progress made in the implementation of the important leader-level consensus in Kazan. They reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas,” the MEA said. Expert group to be set up to explore ‘early harvest’ in boundary delimitation “The two special representatives agreed on setting up an Expert Group, under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), to explore Early Harvest in boundary delimitation in the India-China border areas,” the statement said. WMCC, created in 2012, is a framework that helps India and China communicate and coordinate on border-related matters. Delimitation involves defining the boundary through legal and political means, without physical markers on the ground. Working group to be constituted for effective border management Wang Yi and Ajit Doval also decided that a working group would be set up under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs for effective border management to maintain peace and tranquility. Besides, both sides decided to use the existing diplomatic and military mechanisms for border management and will also discuss de-escalation, starting with its principles and modalities. After his meeting with Yi, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to finding a fair and mutually acceptable resolution to the boundary issue and stressed that stable and constructive relations between the two nations are essential for peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

Besides the breakthrough, the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said that the two sides have also decided to resume direct flights at the earliest and increase the scale of Indian pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

India, China agree to work for early solution to boundary delimitation

US President Donald Trump has said he chose not to call Russian President Vladimir Putin in front of European leaders at the White House because he felt it would be “disrespectful.” “I didn’t do it in front of them, I thought that would be disrespectful to President Putin. I wouldn’t do that, because they have not had the warmest relations,” Trump told Fox News on Tuesday. He added, “And actually, President Putin wouldn’t talk to the people from Europe. I mean, that was part of the problem.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-time-in-moscow-putin-offers-to-host-zelensky-in-russian-capital-for-talks-to-end-war-here-s-what-ukrainian-president-said-1755615224258">Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said</a><h2>Which leaders were present at the White House?</h2>The White House meeting included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders: French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump said he told them he would step into another room to call Putin, explaining that the Russian leader had not been willing to engage directly with the Europeans.<h2>What did Trump say about his call with Putin?</h2>Trump confirmed he later spoke to Putin, describing the conversation as “very good.” “I think I sort of knew, I was, at the end of the meeting, I was going to call President Putin, and President Putin expected it, and he was there. Now, by the time I called him, it was 1 o’clock in the morning in Russia,” Trump said.“But he … picked it up very happily. Sure, he works very hard, like we all do. And, we had a very good call, and I told him that we’re going to set up a meeting with President Zelensky, and you and he will meet. And then after that meeting, if everything works out OK, I’ll meet and we’ll wrap it up,” he added.<h2>What is Trump pushing for in Ukraine?</h2>Trump stressed that any deal to end the war must involve Zelensky directly. “But you know, it takes, in this case, two to tango. They have to have somewhat of a relationship. Otherwise, we’re just wasting a lot of time. I don’t want to be doing that. I just want to end it,” Trump said. He added, “I hope President Putin is going to be good. If he’s not, that’s going to be a rough situation. And I hope Zelensky, President Zelensky, will do what he has to do. He has to show some flexibility also. The thing is a mess.”&nbsp;

President Trump said he avoided calling President Putin in front of European leaders at the White House, calling it “disrespectful,” and claimed Putin wouldn’t speak with them due to strained relations.

US President Donald Trump has said he chose not to call Russian President Vladimir Putin in front of European leaders at the White House because he felt it would be “disrespectful.” “I didn’t do it in front of them, I thought that would be disrespectful to President Putin. I wouldn’t do that, because they have not had the warmest relations,” Trump told Fox News on Tuesday. He added, “And actually, President Putin wouldn’t talk to the people from Europe. I mean, that was part of the problem.” Also read: Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here's what Ukrainian president said Which leaders were present at the White House? The White House meeting included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders: French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump said he told them he would step into another room to call Putin, explaining that the Russian leader had not been willing to engage directly with the Europeans. What did Trump say about his call with Putin? Trump confirmed he later spoke to Putin, describing the conversation as “very good.” “I think I sort of knew, I was, at the end of the meeting, I was going to call President Putin, and President Putin expected it, and he was there. Now, by the time I called him, it was 1 o’clock in the morning in Russia,” Trump said. “But he … picked it up very happily. Sure, he works very hard, like we all do. And, we had a very good call, and I told him that we’re going to set up a meeting with President Zelensky, and you and he will meet. And then after that meeting, if everything works out OK, I’ll meet and we’ll wrap it up,” he added. What is Trump pushing for in Ukraine? Trump stressed that any deal to end the war must involve Zelensky directly. “But you know, it takes, in this case, two to tango. They have to have somewhat of a relationship. Otherwise, we’re just wasting a lot of time. I don’t want to be doing that. I just want to end it,” Trump said. He added, “I hope President Putin is going to be good. If he’s not, that’s going to be a rough situation. And I hope Zelensky, President Zelensky, will do what he has to do. He has to show some flexibility also. The thing is a mess.”

President Trump said he avoided calling President Putin in front of European leaders at the White House, calling it “disrespectful,” and claimed Putin wouldn’t speak with them due to strained relations.

'Putin wouldn’t talk to people from Europe': Trump reveals why he avoided calling Putin in front of world leaders

Israel's First Lady, Michal Herzog, welcomed the United Nations' decision to add Hamas to its official "blacklist" of countries, stressing that they have committed sexual crimes in violent conflicts.The first lady called the United Nations' move a "long time coming", saying that the evidence has been clear for months.Herzog has been actively raising concerns over Hamas' sexual violence since the October 7 attack on southern Israel that killed hundreds of people.“The world must understand: Hamas uses rape as a weapon,” Herzog says. “These atrocities — rape, gang rape, genital mutilation, sexual abuse in captivity — are not incidental. They are deliberate, premeditated and systematic tools of terror," she saidHerzog pointed to a 2024 report by the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict that showed Hamas' deliberate and systematic crimes.This comes a week after UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres placed Hamas on the blacklist for the first time. He further warned that Israel itself could be added in the future if allegations of misconduct by its forces are substantiated.Earlier on Monday, Hamas agreed to the Gaza ceasefire proposal submitted to it on Sunday, according to sources, Al Jazeera reported. Hamas informed mediators that it has accepted the ceasefire-hostage release deal proposal submitted to it on Sunday, reported Reuters and Times of Israel.A Hamas source told Al Jazeera, “We informed the mediators of our approval of their proposal, which was presented yesterday.”Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been mediating between Israel and Hamas since the beginning of the Gaza war, but the efforts of mediators have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Monday that the destruction of Hamas was the only way to get the remaining Gaza hostages back home.“We will only see the return of the remaining hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The Israel's first lady stressed that Hamas has been using "rape as a weapon", adding that the United Nations' putting Hamas in blacklist was "long time coming". She added that the evidence has been clear for months.

Israel's First Lady, Michal Herzog, welcomed the United Nations' decision to add Hamas to its official "blacklist" of countries, stressing that they have committed sexual crimes in violent conflicts. The first lady called the United Nations' move a "long time coming", saying that the evidence has been clear for months. Herzog has been actively raising concerns over Hamas' sexual violence since the October 7 attack on southern Israel that killed hundreds of people. “The world must understand: Hamas uses rape as a weapon,” Herzog says. “These atrocities — rape, gang rape, genital mutilation, sexual abuse in captivity — are not incidental. They are deliberate, premeditated and systematic tools of terror," she said Herzog pointed to a 2024 report by the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict that showed Hamas' deliberate and systematic crimes. This comes a week after UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres placed Hamas on the blacklist for the first time. He further warned that Israel itself could be added in the future if allegations of misconduct by its forces are substantiated. Earlier on Monday, Hamas agreed to the Gaza ceasefire proposal submitted to it on Sunday, according to sources, Al Jazeera reported. Hamas informed mediators that it has accepted the ceasefire-hostage release deal proposal submitted to it on Sunday, reported Reuters and Times of Israel. A Hamas source told Al Jazeera, “We informed the mediators of our approval of their proposal, which was presented yesterday.” Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been mediating between Israel and Hamas since the beginning of the Gaza war, but the efforts of mediators have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Monday that the destruction of Hamas was the only way to get the remaining Gaza hostages back home. “We will only see the return of the remaining hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The Israel's first lady stressed that Hamas has been using "rape as a weapon", adding that the United Nations' putting Hamas in blacklist was "long time coming". She added that the evidence has been clear for months.

'Uses rape as weapon': Israel's First Lady backs UN move to 'blacklist' Hamas, says 'sexual abuse' in captivity is not 'incidental'

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