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Two airport authority workers who manage the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have been arrested for allegedly leaking surveillance video of the deadly Washington&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">DC plane crash</a> to US-based media outlet CNN.&nbsp;
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-deserve-this-jo-ellis-transgender-pilot-wrongly-named-in-washington-plane-crash-speaks-out-who-is-she-8682211" rel="dofollow">'I don&rsquo;t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH</a>
After this came to light, the two workers now face charges of computer trespass, New York Post reported.&nbsp;
The deadly mid-air collision that happened on Wednesday (Jan 29), killed 67 people, who were onboard the plane and helicopter.&nbsp;
The crash shocked the whole nation and triggered a debate on the role of the military chopper in the collision.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429" rel="dofollow"> 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67</a>
<h2>What is there in the video?&nbsp;</h2>
The exclusive video received by CNN gave a closer and clearer look at the mid-air disaster. In one of the clips, the chopper was seen darting from the left side of the screen as the American Airlines flight approached the airport.&nbsp;
A second short clip showed the Black Hawk military chopper, which was carrying three soldiers, and the Bombardier CRJ700 streaming toward each other before the two smash into each other and explode.&nbsp;
CNN reported that both videos were shot on mobile phones.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected'</a>
The MWAA said that Mohamed Lamine Mbengue, 21, of Rockville Maryland, and Jonathan Savoy, 45, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, were both charged.
Mbengue was booked into Arlington County Adult Detention Center but eventually released. Savoy, meanwhile, was issued a summons by the magistrate and cut loose.
The authorities have recovered most of the bodies of the 67 people who died in the crash.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records and now are facing charges of computer trespass. 

Two airport authority workers who manage the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have been arrested for allegedly leaking surveillance video of the deadly Washington DC plane crash to US-based media outlet CNN. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) staffers allegedly made an unauthorised copy of the records. Also read: 'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH After this came to light, the two workers now face charges of computer trespass, New York Post reported. The deadly mid-air collision that happened on Wednesday (Jan 29), killed 67 people, who were onboard the plane and helicopter. The crash shocked the whole nation and triggered a debate on the role of the military chopper in the collision. Also read: 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67 What is there in the video? The exclusive video received by CNN gave a closer and clearer look at the mid-air disaster. In one of the clips, the chopper was seen darting from the left side of the screen as the American Airlines flight approached the airport. A second short clip showed the Black Hawk military chopper, which was carrying three soldiers, and the Bombardier CRJ700 streaming toward each other before the two smash into each other and explode. CNN reported that both videos were shot on mobile phones. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected' The MWAA said that Mohamed Lamine Mbengue, 21, of Rockville Maryland, and Jonathan Savoy, 45, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, were both charged. Mbengue was booked into Arlington County Adult Detention Center but eventually released. Savoy, meanwhile, was issued a summons by the magistrate and cut loose. The authorities have recovered most of the bodies of the 67 people who died in the crash. (With inputs from agencies)

Two airport workers arrested for leaking video of DC plane crash. What was there in the video?

US President Donald Trump has stated that Elon Musk, who has been given the responsibility of reducing government expenditure, is under his direct supervision and cannot take any action without approval.&nbsp;
"Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good if we agree with him, and it&rsquo;s only if we agree with him. Elon can&rsquo;t do and won&rsquo;t do anything without our approval," Trump said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-wants-ukraine-to-repay-us-aid-with-rare-earths-what-are-rare-earth-elements-8689845" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?</a>
"Sometimes we won&rsquo;t agree with it, and we&rsquo;ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he&rsquo;s doing a great job," Trump told reporters.
His comments come amid growing concerns over the level of access granted to Musk&rsquo;s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) within the government&rsquo;s financial system, following the billionaire&rsquo;s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
<h2>'Won&rsquo;t let him go near a conflict': Donald Trump</h2>
Speaking at the White House, Trump clarified that Musk would not be allowed access to areas where conflicts exist.
&ldquo;And we&rsquo;ll give him the approval where appropriate, and where not appropriate, we won&rsquo;t; where we think there&rsquo;s a conflict, we won&rsquo;t let him go near it,&rdquo; Trump said.
"But he reports in and he, it&rsquo;s something that he feels very strongly about, and I&rsquo;m impressed because he&rsquo;s running, obviously, a big company," Trump added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sued-by-diversity-officers-in-an-attempt-to-block-anti-diversity-orders-8690162" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders</a>
The US president's comments came shortly after a team led by Musk effectively shut down USAID. Over the weekend, Musk publicly criticised the agency, calling it &ldquo;evil&rdquo; and &ldquo;a criminal organisation,&rdquo; adding that it was &ldquo;time for it to die.&rdquo; On Monday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was appointed as the agency&rsquo;s interim head, stating he would consult with Congress on its future.
Initially, Trump had announced that Musk would co-chair the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. However, several individuals involved in the initiative, including the other co-chair, have already left, leaving Musk with considerable authority.
Musk had initially sought volunteers to join DOGE without pay. However, since the department is now part of the government, there is uncertainty over whether staff are being paid and whether they are permitted to hold external jobs that might create conflicts of interest.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-deletes-irs-direct-file-programme-team-is-free-tax-filing-at-risk-in-us-8689371" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Elon Musk &lsquo;deletes&rsquo; IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?</a>
<h2>'Special government employee'</h2>
As a designated &ldquo;special government employee,&rdquo; Musk holds a temporary position, allowing him to work at the White House for up to 130 days without needing to file financial disclosure forms, which are mandatory for permanent employees. This mechanism has previously been used by both political parties to bring in advisers with complex financial backgrounds.
On Monday, Trump reiterated that Musk would not be permitted to interfere in areas where conflicts arise. &ldquo;If there&rsquo;s a conflict, then we won&rsquo;t let him get near it,&rdquo; he said. However, he did not clarify who would enforce these restrictions or whether Musk had already been barred from any governmental departments.
Democratic lawmakers have become increasingly vocal in their opposition to Musk&rsquo;s involvement in government affairs, particularly his moves to either dismantle agencies or significantly reduce government employment.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have a fourth branch of government called Elon Musk, and that&rsquo;s going to become real clear,&rdquo; stated Representative Jamie Raskin during a protest outside USAID. &ldquo;This illegal, unconstitutional interference with congressional power is threatening lives all over the world,&rdquo; he added.
Musk and his White House team have been taking swift action to overhaul government operations. They have already accessed financial system data within the Treasury Department and reviewed staffing records at the Office of Personnel Management.&nbsp;
On Monday, a coalition of labour unions filed a lawsuit against the Treasury Department, alleging that the transfer of information to DOGE was unlawful and violated federal privacy protections affecting millions of citizens.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good. Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has stated that Elon Musk, who has been given the responsibility of reducing government expenditure, is under his direct supervision and cannot take any action without approval. "Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good if we agree with him, and it’s only if we agree with him. Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval," Trump said. Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them? "Sometimes we won’t agree with it, and we’ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he’s doing a great job," Trump told reporters. His comments come amid growing concerns over the level of access granted to Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) within the government’s financial system, following the billionaire’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID). 'Won’t let him go near a conflict': Donald Trump Speaking at the White House, Trump clarified that Musk would not be allowed access to areas where conflicts exist. “And we’ll give him the approval where appropriate, and where not appropriate, we won’t; where we think there’s a conflict, we won’t let him go near it,” Trump said. "But he reports in and he, it’s something that he feels very strongly about, and I’m impressed because he’s running, obviously, a big company," Trump added. Also read: Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders The US president's comments came shortly after a team led by Musk effectively shut down USAID. Over the weekend, Musk publicly criticised the agency, calling it “evil” and “a criminal organisation,” adding that it was “time for it to die.” On Monday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was appointed as the agency’s interim head, stating he would consult with Congress on its future. Initially, Trump had announced that Musk would co-chair the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. However, several individuals involved in the initiative, including the other co-chair, have already left, leaving Musk with considerable authority. Musk had initially sought volunteers to join DOGE without pay. However, since the department is now part of the government, there is uncertainty over whether staff are being paid and whether they are permitted to hold external jobs that might create conflicts of interest. Also read: Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US? 'Special government employee' As a designated “special government employee,” Musk holds a temporary position, allowing him to work at the White House for up to 130 days without needing to file financial disclosure forms, which are mandatory for permanent employees. This mechanism has previously been used by both political parties to bring in advisers with complex financial backgrounds. On Monday, Trump reiterated that Musk would not be permitted to interfere in areas where conflicts arise. “If there’s a conflict, then we won’t let him get near it,” he said. However, he did not clarify who would enforce these restrictions or whether Musk had already been barred from any governmental departments. Democratic lawmakers have become increasingly vocal in their opposition to Musk’s involvement in government affairs, particularly his moves to either dismantle agencies or significantly reduce government employment. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark “We don’t have a fourth branch of government called Elon Musk, and that’s going to become real clear,” stated Representative Jamie Raskin during a protest outside USAID. “This illegal, unconstitutional interference with congressional power is threatening lives all over the world,” he added. Musk and his White House team have been taking swift action to overhaul government operations. They have already accessed financial system data within the Treasury Department and reviewed staffing records at the Office of Personnel Management. On Monday, a coalition of labour unions filed a lawsuit against the Treasury Department, alleging that the transfer of information to DOGE was unlawful and violated federal privacy protections affecting millions of citizens. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge

Billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is working for the US president as a &ldquo;special government employee," the Associated Press reported citing a White House official as saying.
The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the Tesla CEO has been given an office space and a government email address and is not paid for his work.
In the US, special government employees typically serve for up to 130 days. Recently, President Trump gave Elon Musk the green light for his work on Sunday, shortly after returning to Washington from a weekend getaway in Florida.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think Elon is doing a good job. He&rsquo;s a big cost-cutter," the Republican president said. &ldquo;Sometimes we won&rsquo;t agree with it, and we&rsquo;ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he&rsquo;s doing a great job,&rdquo; AP quoted Trump saying.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072">Also read: &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris.
This investment was revealed in fresh documents filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
Democrats are sounding the alarm, worried that Musk is amassing too much power within the federal government. They fear that the billionaire is operating without proper oversight and possibly even breaking the law.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
<h2>'Musk only acting with approval,' says Trump</h2>
Trump said that Musk was only undertaking tasks after his approval.
While speaking to reporters at the White House, the US president said that Musk &ldquo;will not be allowed to go places where there is a conflict&rdquo;.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is working for the US president as a “special government employee," the Associated Press reported citing a White House official as saying. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the Tesla CEO has been given an office space and a government email address and is not paid for his work. In the US, special government employees typically serve for up to 130 days. Recently, President Trump gave Elon Musk the green light for his work on Sunday, shortly after returning to Washington from a weekend getaway in Florida. “I think Elon is doing a good job. He’s a big cost-cutter," the Republican president said. “Sometimes we won’t agree with it, and we’ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he’s doing a great job,” AP quoted Trump saying. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris. This investment was revealed in fresh documents filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Democrats are sounding the alarm, worried that Musk is amassing too much power within the federal government. They fear that the billionaire is operating without proper oversight and possibly even breaking the law. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk 'Musk only acting with approval,' says Trump Trump said that Musk was only undertaking tasks after his approval. While speaking to reporters at the White House, the US president said that Musk “will not be allowed to go places where there is a conflict”. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk works for Donald Trump as unpaid 'special government employee'

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America.
The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore.&nbsp;
The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government.&nbsp;
The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-first-female-coast-guard-chief-admiral-linda-lee-fagan-elon-musk-reacts-8642254" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Racist, sexist diversity nonsense&rsquo;: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan</a>
The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional.
"In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-closes-its-diversity-office-ahead-of-donald-trumps-return-to-white-house-us-president-elect-alleges-corruption-8629574" rel="dofollow">FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption'</a>
The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget.
Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants.&nbsp;
The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-fact-checking-meta-dismantles-diversity-programmes-is-mark-zuckerberg-trying-to-appease-president-elect-donald-trump-8609188" rel="dofollow">Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump?</a>
<h2>'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse'</h2>
"In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read.&nbsp;
Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-judge-orders-boeing-and-doj-to-clarify-diversity-policy-before-ruling-on-plea-767944" rel="dofollow">US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea</a>
The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity and inclusion practices within the federal government. 

The city of Maryland and three other groups have sued US President Donald Trump and his administration to block Trump's executive orders, which are collectively the "Anti-DEIA Executive Orders" and are seeking to end diversity programmes in America. The diverse coalition of groups includes the nation's leading academics and higher education officials, restaurant workers, and the City of Baltimore. The challenge was filed in federal court in Maryland and was brought by the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, Maryland, represented by Democracy Forward and Asian Americans Advancing Justice. Recently, Trump has attempted to remove any US government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within the federal government. The Trump administration issued executive orders two days after he took control of the White House, threatening economic sanctions and dismissals. Also read: ‘Racist, sexist diversity nonsense’: Trump fires first female Coast Guard chief, Admiral Linda Lee Fagan The lawsuit alleges that the orders exceeded the president's authority under the US Constitution and asks the court for preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the orders, in addition to finding them unlawful and unconstitutional. "In the United States, there is no king," reads the lawsuit from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, the American Association of University Professors, the Restaurant Opportunities Centres United and the mayor and city council of Baltimore. Also read: FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption' The suit named as defendants Trump, nine government departments and their corresponding cabinet officers, the National Science Foundation, and the Office of Management and Budget. Trump has been making efforts to end programmes that help women, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ people obtain government jobs and contracts, saying such practices unfairly punish more qualified applicants. The civil rights and pro-equality groups argued that the programmes were necessary to remove discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continued to remain behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunity. Also read: Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump? 'Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of purse' "In his crusade to erase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our country, President Trump cannot usurp Congress's exclusive power of the purse, nor can he silence those who disagree with him by threatening them with the loss of federal funds and other enforcement action," the lawsuit read. Trump's executive order against the diversity policies sought the widespread dismissal of federal government employees with the directive to "terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions." Also read: US judge orders Boeing and DOJ to clarify diversity policy before ruling on plea The order targeted publicly traded corporations, large non-profit corporations, state and local bar and medical associations, foundations, and university endowments, seeking to deter them from engaging in diversity programmes. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders

Kash Patel, President Donald Trump's FBI director nominee, appeared before the Senate for his confirmation hearing last week, joined by close friends and family seated in the front row.&nbsp;
Among them was country music artist Alexis Wilkins, who, as reported by Daily Mail, is Patel&rsquo;s girlfriend, whose presence sparked widespread curiosity about their relationship. &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And so the marathon weekend begins ❤️🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/UZsAHUG9fp">pic.twitter.com/UZsAHUG9fp</a>
&mdash; Alexis Wilkins (@AlexisWilkins) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexisWilkins/status/1880727332375421396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-deletes-irs-direct-file-programme-team-is-free-tax-filing-at-risk-in-us-8689371">Elon Musk &lsquo;deletes&rsquo; IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?</a>
<h2>Who is Alexis Wilkins?</h2>
Born on November 3, 1999, in Boston, Massachusetts, Wilkins spent her early years in England and Switzerland before settling in Arkansas. She later moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music.
Her songwriting journey began young&mdash;she released her first song at just eight years old. In 2020, she debuted as a solo artist with Holdin&rsquo; On, and in 2023, her EP Grit reached #4 on the iTunes chart, with the track Country Back climbing to #2 on the iTunes country rankings.
Wilkins has opened for renowned artists like Sara Evans and Lee Greenwood, best known for 'God Bless the USA'. Her music, often infused with patriotic themes, has amassed over a million streams across platforms.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-wants-ukraine-to-repay-us-aid-with-rare-earths-what-are-rare-earth-elements-8689845">Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?</a>
Beyond music, Wilkins has carved a niche in conservative circles. She has spoken at the Reagan Ranch and Young America&rsquo;s Foundation events and is affiliated with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. She also serves as a spokesperson for PragerU and hosts the podcast 'Between the Headlines' on Rumble.
As per the sources who told DailyMail.com, Wilkins and Patel first met at a conservative ReAwaken America event in October 2022 and began dating in January 2023. Their relationship has since garnered public interest, particularly during Patel&rsquo;s recent confirmation hearing, when online searches about his personal life surged.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending | World: Wilkins released her first song at eight. In 2020, she debuted as a solo artist with Holdin’ On, and in 2023, her EP Grit reached #4 on the iTunes chart, with the track Country Back climbing to #2 on the iTunes country rankings. 

Kash Patel, President Donald Trump's FBI director nominee, appeared before the Senate for his confirmation hearing last week, joined by close friends and family seated in the front row. Among them was country music artist Alexis Wilkins, who, as reported by Daily Mail, is Patel’s girlfriend, whose presence sparked widespread curiosity about their relationship. And so the marathon weekend begins ❤️🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UZsAHUG9fp — Alexis Wilkins (@AlexisWilkins) January 18, 2025 Also Read | Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US? Who is Alexis Wilkins? Born on November 3, 1999, in Boston, Massachusetts, Wilkins spent her early years in England and Switzerland before settling in Arkansas. She later moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music. Her songwriting journey began young—she released her first song at just eight years old. In 2020, she debuted as a solo artist with Holdin’ On, and in 2023, her EP Grit reached #4 on the iTunes chart, with the track Country Back climbing to #2 on the iTunes country rankings. Wilkins has opened for renowned artists like Sara Evans and Lee Greenwood, best known for 'God Bless the USA'. Her music, often infused with patriotic themes, has amassed over a million streams across platforms. Also Read | Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them? Beyond music, Wilkins has carved a niche in conservative circles. She has spoken at the Reagan Ranch and Young America’s Foundation events and is affiliated with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. She also serves as a spokesperson for PragerU and hosts the podcast 'Between the Headlines' on Rumble. As per the sources who told DailyMail.com, Wilkins and Patel first met at a conservative ReAwaken America event in October 2022 and began dating in January 2023. Their relationship has since garnered public interest, particularly during Patel’s recent confirmation hearing, when online searches about his personal life surged.

Who is Trump's FBI chief nominee Kash Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet President Donald Trump on Tuesday, as Israel and Hamas say they are ready for negotiations on a new phase in their fragile Gaza ceasefire.
Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since Trump returned to power last month, will discuss the truce's future and efforts to end the Gaza war.
Hours before their meeting, Netanyahu's office said Israel would send a delegation to the Qatari capital Doha later this week for negotiations.
"Israel is preparing for the working-level delegation to leave for Doha at the end of this week in order to discuss technical details related to the continued implementation of the agreement," the office said in a statement following meetings in Washington between Netanyahu and Trump's advisors, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Hamas has said it is ready to negotiate the second stage of the ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
The next phase aims to secure the release of remaining hostages and lay out steps toward ending the war, which has devastated the Palestinian territory of 2.4 million people.
<h2>'No guarantees'&nbsp;</h2>
The war broke out after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023.
Trump has repeatedly touted a plan to "clean out" Gaza, calling for Palestinians to move to neighbouring countries such as Egypt or Jordan, despite all those parties strongly rejecting his proposal.
Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said Israel's wars with Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and its confrontations with Iran had "redrawn the map" in the Middle East.
"But I believe that working closely with President Trump we can redraw it even further, and for the better," he said.
The White House meeting promises to be a crucial one for a region shattered by war since the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas.
Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance."
The Israeli prime minister had tense relations with Trump's predecessor Joe Biden over the growing death toll in Gaza, despite Biden's steadfast maintenance of US military aid.
But Trump, who has claimed credit for sealing the ceasefire after 15 months of war and prides himself on his dealmaking ability, will be pushing Netanyahu to stick to the agreement.
He is also expected to lean on Netanyahu to accept a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, something he tried to do in his first term.
Trump said Sunday that talks with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries were "progressing" -- but then warned less than 24 hours later that there were "no guarantees that the peace is going to hold."
<h2>Unrest in West Bank&nbsp;</h2>
Witkoff, who met Netanyahu on Monday over terms for the second phase of the truce, said however that he was "certainly hopeful" the truce would stick.
Trump's sudden floating of a plan to move people out of Gaza&mdash;which he describes as a "demolition site"&mdash;has added uncertainty to an already tense and difficult situation.
Trump said the plan could be temporary or permanent, but the mass displacement of civilians from Gaza was strongly rejected by Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinians, and ceasefire mediator Qatar.
Under the Gaza ceasefire's ongoing 42-day first phase, Hamas is to free 33 hostages in staggered releases in exchange for around 1,900 Palestinians held in Israeli jails.
Four hostage-prisoner exchanges have already taken place, and militants have freed 18 hostages so far in exchange for some 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
The truce has also led to a surge of food, fuel, medical, and other aid into rubble-strewn Gaza, as well as allowing displaced Gazans to return to the territory's north.
Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.&nbsp;
Israel's retaliatory response has killed at least 47,518 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN considers these figures as reliable.
Israel has turned its focus to the occupied West Bank and an operation it says is aimed at rooting out extremism that has killed dozens.
On Tuesday, the military said its forces killed an assailant who fired on troops near the city of Jenin in the West Bank.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet President Donald Trump on Tuesday, as Israel and Hamas say they are ready for negotiations on a new phase in their fragile Gaza ceasefire. Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since Trump returned to power last month, will discuss the truce's future and efforts to end the Gaza war. Hours before their meeting, Netanyahu's office said Israel would send a delegation to the Qatari capital Doha later this week for negotiations. "Israel is preparing for the working-level delegation to leave for Doha at the end of this week in order to discuss technical details related to the continued implementation of the agreement," the office said in a statement following meetings in Washington between Netanyahu and Trump's advisors, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Hamas has said it is ready to negotiate the second stage of the ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. The next phase aims to secure the release of remaining hostages and lay out steps toward ending the war, which has devastated the Palestinian territory of 2.4 million people. 'No guarantees' The war broke out after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. Trump has repeatedly touted a plan to "clean out" Gaza, calling for Palestinians to move to neighbouring countries such as Egypt or Jordan, despite all those parties strongly rejecting his proposal. Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said Israel's wars with Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and its confrontations with Iran had "redrawn the map" in the Middle East. "But I believe that working closely with President Trump we can redraw it even further, and for the better," he said. The White House meeting promises to be a crucial one for a region shattered by war since the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas. Netanyahu hailed the fact he would be the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his January 20 inauguration as "testimony to the strength of the Israeli-American alliance." The Israeli prime minister had tense relations with Trump's predecessor Joe Biden over the growing death toll in Gaza, despite Biden's steadfast maintenance of US military aid. But Trump, who has claimed credit for sealing the ceasefire after 15 months of war and prides himself on his dealmaking ability, will be pushing Netanyahu to stick to the agreement. He is also expected to lean on Netanyahu to accept a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, something he tried to do in his first term. Trump said Sunday that talks with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries were "progressing" -- but then warned less than 24 hours later that there were "no guarantees that the peace is going to hold." Unrest in West Bank Witkoff, who met Netanyahu on Monday over terms for the second phase of the truce, said however that he was "certainly hopeful" the truce would stick. Trump's sudden floating of a plan to move people out of Gaza—which he describes as a "demolition site"—has added uncertainty to an already tense and difficult situation. Trump said the plan could be temporary or permanent, but the mass displacement of civilians from Gaza was strongly rejected by Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinians, and ceasefire mediator Qatar. Under the Gaza ceasefire's ongoing 42-day first phase, Hamas is to free 33 hostages in staggered releases in exchange for around 1,900 Palestinians held in Israeli jails. Four hostage-prisoner exchanges have already taken place, and militants have freed 18 hostages so far in exchange for some 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. The truce has also led to a surge of food, fuel, medical, and other aid into rubble-strewn Gaza, as well as allowing displaced Gazans to return to the territory's north. Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel's retaliatory response has killed at least 47,518 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The UN considers these figures as reliable. Israel has turned its focus to the occupied West Bank and an operation it says is aimed at rooting out extremism that has killed dozens. On Tuesday, the military said its forces killed an assailant who fired on troops near the city of Jenin in the West Bank. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire</a> talks with Hamas.&nbsp;
According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit</a>
However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group.&nbsp;
Earlier on Sunday, Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-20-hostages-in-gaza-yet-to-be-released-from-hamas-captives-8684589" rel="dofollow">Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas?</a>
<h2>'No guarantees...'</h2>
As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold."
Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran&rsquo;s nuclear programme.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-netanyahu-to-white-house-on-feb-4-confirms-israel-pm-office-8662623" rel="dofollow">Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms</a>
It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him.&nbsp;
On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump&rsquo;s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: There has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who will be meeting US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) in Washington DC, has reportedly skipped Gaza ceasefire talks with Hamas. According to the ceasefire agreement, talks on the next phase to extend the ceasefire were due to begin on February 3. However, there has been silence from Netanyahu's office about when a negotiating team will hold the talks with the Palestinian militant group. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into force in January and is scheduled to expire on March 1. Also read: Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during ‘historic’ US visit However, Hamas has not said anything publicly about Monday's deadline for ceasefire talks. Moreover, the Israeli government has not yet disclosed the team which will be negotiating with the Hamas group. Earlier on Sunday, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Than said that there was no clarity on when or how the talks would start. "We hope to see some movement in the coming days,” he added. Also read: Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas? 'No guarantees...' As Trump and Netanyahu are set to meet today in the White House, the US president told reporters on Monday, "I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold." Although, Trump has been taking credit for the Gaza ceasefire agreement held between Israel and Hamas. Both leaders will be discussing the prospects of the ceasefire deal and will touch on a long-sought Israel-Saudi Arabia normalisation deal and concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. Also read: Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms It will mark Netanyahu's first visit outside the country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him. On Monday, Netanyahu and Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff began the daunting task of hammering out the next phase of a ceasefire agreement. Notably, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has reaffirmed control over Gaza since the ceasefire began last month and has said that it will not release hostages in the second phase without an end to the war as well as Israeli forces' complete withdrawal. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu skips Gaza ceasefire talks deadline with Hamas to meet Trump

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> on Monday (Feb 3) stated that he wants Ukraine to supply rare earth minerals to the United States as a form of compensation for the financial aid provided in support of its war against Russia.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump claimed that Ukraine was open to the idea and emphasised his desire for "equalisation" in return for Washington's near "$300 billion" in assistance.
"We're telling Ukraine they have very valuable rare earths," Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-deletes-irs-direct-file-programme-team-is-free-tax-filing-at-risk-in-us-8689371" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Elon Musk &lsquo;deletes&rsquo; IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?</a>
"We're looking to do a deal with Ukraine where they're going to secure what we're giving them with their rare earths and other things," he added.
Trump&rsquo;s proposal comes amid a freeze on foreign development aid by his administration, which has forced many humanitarian organisations in Ukraine to suspend their operations. Despite this, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that US military aid provided under the Biden administration remains unaffected by the current halt in foreign assistance. 
Trump has consistently voiced opposition to the continued supply of billions of dollars in military equipment and weaponry to Ukraine, arguing that the financial burden on the US is too great.
It remains unclear whether Trump&rsquo;s use of the term "rare earths" was about all critical minerals or specifically rare earth elements.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/illegal-migration-is-not-worth-the-risk-us-embassy-sounds-alarm-amid-reports-of-deporting-indians-8689708" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Illegal migration is not worth the risk,' US embassy sounds alarm amid reports of deporting Indians</a>
<h2>What are rare earths?</h2>
Rare earths refer to a group of 17 metals essential in manufacturing magnets used in electric vehicles, mobile phones, and various electronic devices. There are no known substitutes for these elements.
According to the US Geological Survey, 50 minerals are classified as critical for the American economy and national defence. This includes certain rare earth elements, as well as nickel and lithium.
Ukraine possesses significant deposits of uranium, lithium, and titanium, though these are not among the world&rsquo;s top five largest reserves by volume. The United States also has its own untapped reserves of these and other essential minerals.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
<h2>Why is Trump interested in Ukraine&rsquo;s rare earth minerals?</h2>
The US currently operates only one rare earth mine and has minimal processing capability. While several companies are working on developing new projects, China remains the dominant global producer of rare earth elements and other crucial minerals.
Trump&rsquo;s approach to exchanging aid for minerals aligns with his broader foreign policy strategy, which has prioritised economic leverage in international dealings. He has used similar tactics to pressure allies, such as Colombia and Mexico, into negotiating agreements on various issues.
His interest in Ukraine&rsquo;s rare earth resources is not entirely new, as Zelensky himself had previously stressed Ukraine&rsquo;s wealth of critical minerals as a means to attract the Trump administration&rsquo;s support. In recent months, the Ukrainian president has argued that defending Ukraine is also in America's economic interest, given the potential benefits of Ukraine&rsquo;s mineral resources for US industries.
Following Trump's comments, a senior Ukrainian official told The New York Times on Monday night that Ukraine is open to working with the US on rare earth mineral agreements, provided that Washington offers enough security guarantees to prevent these resources from falling into Russian hands.
Last year, Ukraine had planned to sign an agreement with the Biden administration to collaborate on extracting and processing minerals. However, the Ukrainian authorities delayed the signing, with officials on both sides indicating that Kyiv was waiting for Trump to take office before finalising a deal.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump has consistently voiced opposition to the continued supply of billions of dollars in military equipment and weaponry to Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) stated that he wants Ukraine to supply rare earth minerals to the United States as a form of compensation for the financial aid provided in support of its war against Russia. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump claimed that Ukraine was open to the idea and emphasised his desire for "equalisation" in return for Washington's near "$300 billion" in assistance. "We're telling Ukraine they have very valuable rare earths," Trump said. Also read: Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US? "We're looking to do a deal with Ukraine where they're going to secure what we're giving them with their rare earths and other things," he added. Trump’s proposal comes amid a freeze on foreign development aid by his administration, which has forced many humanitarian organisations in Ukraine to suspend their operations. Despite this, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that US military aid provided under the Biden administration remains unaffected by the current halt in foreign assistance. Trump has consistently voiced opposition to the continued supply of billions of dollars in military equipment and weaponry to Ukraine, arguing that the financial burden on the US is too great. It remains unclear whether Trump’s use of the term "rare earths" was about all critical minerals or specifically rare earth elements. Also read: 'Illegal migration is not worth the risk,' US embassy sounds alarm amid reports of deporting Indians What are rare earths? Rare earths refer to a group of 17 metals essential in manufacturing magnets used in electric vehicles, mobile phones, and various electronic devices. There are no known substitutes for these elements. According to the US Geological Survey, 50 minerals are classified as critical for the American economy and national defence. This includes certain rare earth elements, as well as nickel and lithium. Ukraine possesses significant deposits of uranium, lithium, and titanium, though these are not among the world’s top five largest reserves by volume. The United States also has its own untapped reserves of these and other essential minerals. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark Why is Trump interested in Ukraine’s rare earth minerals? The US currently operates only one rare earth mine and has minimal processing capability. While several companies are working on developing new projects, China remains the dominant global producer of rare earth elements and other crucial minerals. Trump’s approach to exchanging aid for minerals aligns with his broader foreign policy strategy, which has prioritised economic leverage in international dealings. He has used similar tactics to pressure allies, such as Colombia and Mexico, into negotiating agreements on various issues. His interest in Ukraine’s rare earth resources is not entirely new, as Zelensky himself had previously stressed Ukraine’s wealth of critical minerals as a means to attract the Trump administration’s support. In recent months, the Ukrainian president has argued that defending Ukraine is also in America's economic interest, given the potential benefits of Ukraine’s mineral resources for US industries. Following Trump's comments, a senior Ukrainian official told The New York Times on Monday night that Ukraine is open to working with the US on rare earth mineral agreements, provided that Washington offers enough security guarantees to prevent these resources from falling into Russian hands. Last year, Ukraine had planned to sign an agreement with the Biden administration to collaborate on extracting and processing minerals. However, the Ukrainian authorities delayed the signing, with officials on both sides indicating that Kyiv was waiting for Trump to take office before finalising a deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?

US Vice President JD Vance will join top tech players in Paris next week at an artificial intelligence summit billed by France as a "wake-up call" for Europe in the global race for AI.
Vance, whose attendance was confirmed Tuesday by a French diplomatic source, China's Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest-profile of representatives from 80 countries to mingle with players from across the sector on February 10 and 11.
The event will take place in the French capital's sumptuous Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition.
In the run-up, French President Emmanuel Macron will on February 4 visit research centres applying AI to science and health, before hosting scientists and Nobel Prize winners at his Elysee Palace residence on Wednesday.
A wider science conference will be held at the Polytechnique engineering school on Thursday and Friday.
"The summit comes at exactly the right time for this wake-up call for France and Europe, and to show we are in position" to take advantage of the technology, an official in Macron's office told reporters.
In recent weeks, Washington's announcement of $500 billion in investment to build up AI infrastructure and the release of a frugal but powerful generative AI model by Chinese firm DeepSeek have focussed minds in Europe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/introducing-chatgpt-gov-openai-launches-tailored-version-for-us-government-amid-rise-in-ai-competition-8662379">Introducing ChatGPT Gov: OpenAI launches tailored version for US government amid rise in AI competition</a>
The two superpowers are in the midst of a trade war.
France must "not let this revolution pass it by", Macron's office said.
Attendees at the summit will include Sam Altman, head of OpenAI &ndash; the firm that brought generative models to public consciousness in 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT.
Google boss Sundar Pichai and Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, who leads the company's DeepMind AI research unit, will also come, alongside Arthur Mensch, founder of French AI developer Mistral.
The Elysee has said there are "talks" on hosting DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, and has yet to clarify whether X owner Elon Musk &ndash; who has his own generative initiative, xAI &ndash; has accepted an invitation.
Confirmed guests from Europe include European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
<h2>'Stoke confidence'</h2>
The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP.
Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies.
Macron's office has said the summit would see the announcement of "massive" investments along the lines of his annual "Choose France" business conference, at which 15 billion euros ($15.4 billion) of inward investment were pledged in 2024.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-tells-netanyahu-israeli-firms-allowed-at-paris-air-show-8656385">French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show</a>
Beyond the economic opportunities, AI's impact on culture including artistic creativity and news production will be discussed in a side-event over the weekend.
Debates open to the public, such as that one, are aimed at showing off "positive use cases for AI" to "stoke confidence and speed up adoption" of the technology, said France's digital minister Clara Chappaz.
For now the French public is sceptical of AI, with 79 percent of respondents telling pollsters Ifop they were "concerned" about the technology in a recent survey.
<h2>More 'inclusive' AI?</h2>
Paris says it also hopes the summit can help kick off its vision of a more ethical and accessible and less resource-intensive AI.
At present, "the AI under development is pushed by a few large players from a few countries", Bouverot said, whereas France wants "to promote more inclusive development".
Indian premier Modi has been invited to co-host the Paris summit, in a push to bring governments on board.
One of the summit's aims is the establishment of a public-interest foundation for which Paris aims to raise 2.5 billion euros over five years.
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The effort would be "a public-private partnership between various governments, businesses and philanthropic foundations from different countries", Macron's office said.
Paris hopes at the summit to chart different efforts at AI governance around the world and gather commitments for environmentally sustainable AI &ndash; although no binding mechanism is planned for now.
"There are lots of big principles emerging around responsible, trustworthy AI, but it's not clear or easy to implement for the engineers in technical terms," said Laure de Roucy-Rochegonde, director of the geopolitical technology centre at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI).
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World | The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP. Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies.

US Vice President JD Vance will join top tech players in Paris next week at an artificial intelligence summit billed by France as a "wake-up call" for Europe in the global race for AI. Vance, whose attendance was confirmed Tuesday by a French diplomatic source, China's Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest-profile of representatives from 80 countries to mingle with players from across the sector on February 10 and 11. The event will take place in the French capital's sumptuous Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. In the run-up, French President Emmanuel Macron will on February 4 visit research centres applying AI to science and health, before hosting scientists and Nobel Prize winners at his Elysee Palace residence on Wednesday. A wider science conference will be held at the Polytechnique engineering school on Thursday and Friday. "The summit comes at exactly the right time for this wake-up call for France and Europe, and to show we are in position" to take advantage of the technology, an official in Macron's office told reporters. In recent weeks, Washington's announcement of $500 billion in investment to build up AI infrastructure and the release of a frugal but powerful generative AI model by Chinese firm DeepSeek have focussed minds in Europe. Also read | Introducing ChatGPT Gov: OpenAI launches tailored version for US government amid rise in AI competition The two superpowers are in the midst of a trade war. France must "not let this revolution pass it by", Macron's office said. Attendees at the summit will include Sam Altman, head of OpenAI – the firm that brought generative models to public consciousness in 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT. Google boss Sundar Pichai and Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, who leads the company's DeepMind AI research unit, will also come, alongside Arthur Mensch, founder of French AI developer Mistral. The Elysee has said there are "talks" on hosting DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, and has yet to clarify whether X owner Elon Musk – who has his own generative initiative, xAI – has accepted an invitation. Confirmed guests from Europe include European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. 'Stoke confidence' The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP. Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies. Macron's office has said the summit would see the announcement of "massive" investments along the lines of his annual "Choose France" business conference, at which 15 billion euros ($15.4 billion) of inward investment were pledged in 2024. Also read | French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show Beyond the economic opportunities, AI's impact on culture including artistic creativity and news production will be discussed in a side-event over the weekend. Debates open to the public, such as that one, are aimed at showing off "positive use cases for AI" to "stoke confidence and speed up adoption" of the technology, said France's digital minister Clara Chappaz. For now the French public is sceptical of AI, with 79 percent of respondents telling pollsters Ifop they were "concerned" about the technology in a recent survey. More 'inclusive' AI? Paris says it also hopes the summit can help kick off its vision of a more ethical and accessible and less resource-intensive AI. At present, "the AI under development is pushed by a few large players from a few countries", Bouverot said, whereas France wants "to promote more inclusive development". Indian premier Modi has been invited to co-host the Paris summit, in a push to bring governments on board. One of the summit's aims is the establishment of a public-interest foundation for which Paris aims to raise 2.5 billion euros over five years. Also read | Hundreds protest against Trump's trans policy in New York The effort would be "a public-private partnership between various governments, businesses and philanthropic foundations from different countries", Macron's office said. Paris hopes at the summit to chart different efforts at AI governance around the world and gather commitments for environmentally sustainable AI – although no binding mechanism is planned for now. "There are lots of big principles emerging around responsible, trustworthy AI, but it's not clear or easy to implement for the engineers in technical terms," said Laure de Roucy-Rochegonde, director of the geopolitical technology centre at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Vice President JD Vance to attend AI summit in Paris

Hundreds of people protested in New York Monday against President Donald Trump's executive orders restricting treatment for transgender children, and reports that a local hospital group consequently cancelled appointments for two trans youths.
A noisy crowd packed into Manhattan's St. Vartan park, in sight of a campus of NYU Langone Health which The New York Times reports cancelled appointments of two trans children following Trump's decree.
"Protect trans futures," "don't capitulate to hate" and "break the silence" read the slogans on some of the banners brandished by the crowds of protesters, at least one of whom was detained by police, an AFP correspondent saw.
Last month, Trump issued a sweeping executive order requiring institutions receiving federal research or education grants to end forms of gender affirming treatment for children under 19, and directed his incoming health secretary to do everything to end the practice.
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"It is the policy of the United States that it will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called 'transition' of a child from one sex to another, and it will rigorously enforce all laws that prohibit or limit these destructive and life-altering procedures," the policy reads.
Two 12-year-old children due to receive puberty-blocker implants at NYU Langone had their appointments cancelled, with one parent recounting a doctor told them it was because of "the new administration", the Times reported.
NYU Langone Health declined to comment to AFP.
"I don't regularly come to rallies like this. Trans people have always existed, we are not going to go away just because they make lawmakers uncomfortable," said one trans protester from Brooklyn who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the situation.
<h2>'Most vulnerable groups'</h2>
"It starts with local organizing and getting a mayor who is not willing to do Trump's bidding."&nbsp;
Referring to the claims NYU Langone suspended care for trans younth, the demonstrator said "it's about not complying in advance."
"We're sick of putting up with this," they said.
One speaker at the rally, Julie, said they had received gender affirming care at NYU Langone Health for 15 years and was "very fortunate."
"We're now at the slightest pushback from Washington, an illegal executive order, the CEO of NYU Langone has already started canceling appointments for trans youth," they said.&nbsp;
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Speaker rabbi Abby Stein, who is trans, accused Trump of singling out "one of the most vulnerable groups in this country."
"We're asking for the right to be alive. We're asking for the right to basic health care," they said.
In a blizzard of executive action since returning to power, Trump has singled out trans people, with the State Department removing "T" and "Q" from "LGBTQ" country travel advisories, as well as decreeing departments only recognize two genders.
While campaigning, Trump routinely demonized any recognition of gender diversity, attacking transgender people &ndash; notably transgender women in sports &ndash; and gender-affirming care for children.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | A noisy crowd packed into Manhattan's St. Vartan park, in sight of a campus of NYU Langone Health which The New York Times reports cancelled appointments of two trans children following Trump's decree.

Hundreds of people protested in New York Monday against President Donald Trump's executive orders restricting treatment for transgender children, and reports that a local hospital group consequently cancelled appointments for two trans youths. A noisy crowd packed into Manhattan's St. Vartan park, in sight of a campus of NYU Langone Health which The New York Times reports cancelled appointments of two trans children following Trump's decree. "Protect trans futures," "don't capitulate to hate" and "break the silence" read the slogans on some of the banners brandished by the crowds of protesters, at least one of whom was detained by police, an AFP correspondent saw. Last month, Trump issued a sweeping executive order requiring institutions receiving federal research or education grants to end forms of gender affirming treatment for children under 19, and directed his incoming health secretary to do everything to end the practice. Also read | European carmaker shares drop as Trump imposes tariffs "It is the policy of the United States that it will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called 'transition' of a child from one sex to another, and it will rigorously enforce all laws that prohibit or limit these destructive and life-altering procedures," the policy reads. Two 12-year-old children due to receive puberty-blocker implants at NYU Langone had their appointments cancelled, with one parent recounting a doctor told them it was because of "the new administration", the Times reported. NYU Langone Health declined to comment to AFP. "I don't regularly come to rallies like this. Trans people have always existed, we are not going to go away just because they make lawmakers uncomfortable," said one trans protester from Brooklyn who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the situation. 'Most vulnerable groups' "It starts with local organizing and getting a mayor who is not willing to do Trump's bidding." Referring to the claims NYU Langone suspended care for trans younth, the demonstrator said "it's about not complying in advance." "We're sick of putting up with this," they said. One speaker at the rally, Julie, said they had received gender affirming care at NYU Langone Health for 15 years and was "very fortunate." "We're now at the slightest pushback from Washington, an illegal executive order, the CEO of NYU Langone has already started canceling appointments for trans youth," they said. Also read | Trump's meme coin made nearly $100 million in trading fees Speaker rabbi Abby Stein, who is trans, accused Trump of singling out "one of the most vulnerable groups in this country." "We're asking for the right to be alive. We're asking for the right to basic health care," they said. In a blizzard of executive action since returning to power, Trump has singled out trans people, with the State Department removing "T" and "Q" from "LGBTQ" country travel advisories, as well as decreeing departments only recognize two genders. While campaigning, Trump routinely demonized any recognition of gender diversity, attacking transgender people – notably transgender women in sports – and gender-affirming care for children. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds protest against Trump's trans policy in New York

A rare violin has the possibility of becoming the most expensive musical instrument to be ever sold after going up for auction.
Made in 1714 by Antonio Stradivari, the &ldquo;Joachim-Ma Stradivarius&rdquo; has an estimated value of $12 million to $18 million and will go up for auction at Sotheby&rsquo;s in New York on Friday (Feb 7).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/steve-jobs-letter-revealing-ardent-desire-to-attend-kumbh-mela-fetches-whopping-500k-at-auction-8622997">Steve Jobs' letter revealing ardent desire to attend Kumbh Mela fetches $500k at auction</a>
If sold at its highest range, the violin could surpass the Guinness World Record of &ldquo;Lady Blunt&rdquo;, a 1721 Stradivarius which was sold for $15.9 million in 2011, becoming the most expensive instrument ever sold at auction.
<h2>&lsquo;Exceptional beauty and sound&rsquo;</h2>
According to Sotheby&rsquo;s Americas president and head of global business Mari-Claudia Jimenez, the violin was made by Stradivari during his &ldquo;Golden Period&rdquo;, which started around 1700 and was distinguished by improved craftsmanship, reported news agency AP.
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The official website of Sotheby&rsquo;s describes the exquisite violin as &ldquo;an embodiment of over three centuries of musical history&rdquo; that is &ldquo;renowned for its extraordinary sound and exquisite beauty.&rdquo;
&ldquo;What sets the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius apart is its exceptional sound&mdash;rich, complex, and full of depth,&rdquo; it says. &ldquo;The tone is both sweet and rounded, with a richness that seems to grow with each note. There&rsquo;s a warmth to the sound, with an underlying depth that gives it a unique character, making it far from ordinary. The violin&rsquo;s voice is not only heard but also felt.&rdquo;
Sotheby&rsquo;s also applauds the remarkable preservation of the violin over centuries, ensuring its history and legacy.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-rejects-the-onions-flawed-auction-bid-for-infowars-783233">US court rejects The Onion&rsquo;s &lsquo;flawed&rsquo; auction bid for Infowars</a>
The instrument was previously owned by Si-Hon Ma, a violinist and pedagogue who graduated with an Artist Diploma from the New England Conservatory (NEC) in the 1950s. Before this, Joseph Joachim, one of the most influential violinists of the 19th century, owned the violin.
After the Ma&rsquo;s death, his estate gifted the legendary creation to the NEC, who is now putting up the violin for auction.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Made in 1714 by Antonio Stradivari, the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” has an estimated value of $12 million to $18 million and will go up for auction at Sotheby’s in New York on Friday (Feb 7). 

A rare violin has the possibility of becoming the most expensive musical instrument to be ever sold after going up for auction. Made in 1714 by Antonio Stradivari, the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” has an estimated value of $12 million to $18 million and will go up for auction at Sotheby’s in New York on Friday (Feb 7). Also read | Steve Jobs' letter revealing ardent desire to attend Kumbh Mela fetches $500k at auction If sold at its highest range, the violin could surpass the Guinness World Record of “Lady Blunt”, a 1721 Stradivarius which was sold for $15.9 million in 2011, becoming the most expensive instrument ever sold at auction. ‘Exceptional beauty and sound’ According to Sotheby’s Americas president and head of global business Mari-Claudia Jimenez, the violin was made by Stradivari during his “Golden Period”, which started around 1700 and was distinguished by improved craftsmanship, reported news agency AP. Also read | Huge Bluefin Tuna sold for $1.3 million at Tokyo’s famous annual auction The official website of Sotheby’s describes the exquisite violin as “an embodiment of over three centuries of musical history” that is “renowned for its extraordinary sound and exquisite beauty.” “What sets the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius apart is its exceptional sound—rich, complex, and full of depth,” it says. “The tone is both sweet and rounded, with a richness that seems to grow with each note. There’s a warmth to the sound, with an underlying depth that gives it a unique character, making it far from ordinary. The violin’s voice is not only heard but also felt.” Sotheby’s also applauds the remarkable preservation of the violin over centuries, ensuring its history and legacy. Also read | US court rejects The Onion’s ‘flawed’ auction bid for Infowars The instrument was previously owned by Si-Hon Ma, a violinist and pedagogue who graduated with an Artist Diploma from the New England Conservatory (NEC) in the 1950s. Before this, Joseph Joachim, one of the most influential violinists of the 19th century, owned the violin. After the Ma’s death, his estate gifted the legendary creation to the NEC, who is now putting up the violin for auction. (With inputs from agencies)

THIS rare item may become most expensive musical instrument to be auctioned

The Trump administration has begun deporting Indian migrants aboard a US military C-17 aircraft.&nbsp;
In response to these reports, a US Embassy spokesperson emphasised that the United States is strictly enforcing its immigration laws and removing people who are in the country illegally.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The United States is vigorously enforcing its border, tightening immigration laws, and removing illegal migrants. These actions send a clear message: illegal migration is not worth the risk,&rdquo; a US embassy spokesperson was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
A US military aircraft with 205 Indian nationals aboard departed from Texas on Monday (Feb 3), according to NDTV.
The migrants are expected to arrive in the country after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official on Monday, as per news agency Reuters.
The move comes amid reports that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit the United States next week.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-flight-deporting-migrants-to-india-report-8688470">Also read: Trump administration deporting illegal migrants to India aboard military aircraft: Report</a>
<h2>'Will facilitate return of Indian nationals,' says MEA</h2>
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 24, stated that it would facilitate the return of Indian nationals "overstaying" or residing without proper documentation in the United States or "anywhere in the world."
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a press briefing in New Delhi, said, "We are against illegal immigration, especially because it is linked to several forms of organised crime."
He added, "For Indians, not just in the United States, but anywhere in the world, if they are Indian nationals and they are overstaying, or they are in a particular country without proper documentation, we will take them back, provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality and that they are indeed Indians. If that happens to be the case, we will take things forward and facilitate their return to India."
The remarks came after the White House Press Secretary announced that the "largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway."
Karoline Leavitt, in a post on X, said, "The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6qbq8ex-ohtgnxkr-wgjdctqz">
🚨TODAY: The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors.
&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1882614532557926671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
In another post, she said, "The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors. Deportation flights have begun. President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences."
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News: The Trump administration has begun deporting Indian migrants aboard a US military C-17 aircraft. The migrants are expected to arrive after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official on Monday, as per news agency Reuters.

The Trump administration has begun deporting Indian migrants aboard a US military C-17 aircraft. In response to these reports, a US Embassy spokesperson emphasised that the United States is strictly enforcing its immigration laws and removing people who are in the country illegally. “The United States is vigorously enforcing its border, tightening immigration laws, and removing illegal migrants. These actions send a clear message: illegal migration is not worth the risk,” a US embassy spokesperson was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. A US military aircraft with 205 Indian nationals aboard departed from Texas on Monday (Feb 3), according to NDTV. The migrants are expected to arrive in the country after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official on Monday, as per news agency Reuters. The move comes amid reports that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit the United States next week. Also read: Trump administration deporting illegal migrants to India aboard military aircraft: Report 'Will facilitate return of Indian nationals,' says MEA India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 24, stated that it would facilitate the return of Indian nationals "overstaying" or residing without proper documentation in the United States or "anywhere in the world." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a press briefing in New Delhi, said, "We are against illegal immigration, especially because it is linked to several forms of organised crime." He added, "For Indians, not just in the United States, but anywhere in the world, if they are Indian nationals and they are overstaying, or they are in a particular country without proper documentation, we will take them back, provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality and that they are indeed Indians. If that happens to be the case, we will take things forward and facilitate their return to India." The remarks came after the White House Press Secretary announced that the "largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway." Karoline Leavitt, in a post on X, said, "The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept." 🚨TODAY: The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors. — Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 24, 2025 In another post, she said, "The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors. Deportation flights have begun. President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences." (With inputs from agencies)

'Illegal migration is not worth the risk,' US embassy sounds alarm amid reports of deporting Indians

Elon Musk, who has been appointed as a "special government employee" by President Donald Trump, announced on Monday (Feb 03) that he had cut the staff of the Internal Revenue Service that oversaw the system that allows Americans to file their taxes for free easily on its website.
The billionaire tech entrepreneur posted on his social media platform that he had "deleted" 18F, a government agency that handled multiple technology projects, including the IRS&rsquo; Direct File programme. This announcement created confusion about the future of Direct File, though the free tax filing system remains operational for at least the upcoming tax season.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072">&lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
A right-wing influencer&nbsp;criticised the &ldquo;direct file&rdquo; tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren. Musk responded, by saying, "That group has been deleted."
As of Monday evening, the 18F website remained functional, along with the Direct File website. However, the X account for the digital services agency had been taken down.
Last year, the IRS confirmed that it intended to make its free electronic tax filing system permanent. It also extended an invitation to all 50 states and the District of Columbia to participate in the initiative, allowing taxpayers to file their returns through the programme by 2025.
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The Direct File pilot scheme was launched in March 2024. However, private tax preparation firms have strongly opposed the initiative, as they have profited substantially from charging individuals for tax filing services. 
Commercial tax preparation companies argue that sufficient free filing options are already available. Several organisations, including private tax firms, provide free online tax preparation assistance, though eligibility is often restricted by income limits. While fillable forms are accessible via the IRS website, they can be complex, requiring taxpayers to manually calculate their tax liability.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
In May last year, the IRS confirmed that the Direct File programme would become permanent. Initially trialled in 12 states, it has since expanded to 25 states.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to an IRS report from October 2024, users of the pilot programme claimed more than $90 million in refunds.
A 2023 poll conducted by Navigator showed that 76% of registered voters supported the IRS-run free and simplified tax filing option. The same survey found that approval for the "Direct eFile" tool was particularly high among tax filers earning under $50,000 (77%), individuals aged 18 to 34 (81%), and Black taxpayers (80%), as reported by the Economic Security Project.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A right-wing influencer criticised the “direct file” tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren.

Elon Musk, who has been appointed as a "special government employee" by President Donald Trump, announced on Monday (Feb 03) that he had cut the staff of the Internal Revenue Service that oversaw the system that allows Americans to file their taxes for free easily on its website. The billionaire tech entrepreneur posted on his social media platform that he had "deleted" 18F, a government agency that handled multiple technology projects, including the IRS’ Direct File programme. This announcement created confusion about the future of Direct File, though the free tax filing system remains operational for at least the upcoming tax season. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark A right-wing influencer criticised the “direct file” tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren. Musk responded, by saying, "That group has been deleted." As of Monday evening, the 18F website remained functional, along with the Direct File website. However, the X account for the digital services agency had been taken down. Last year, the IRS confirmed that it intended to make its free electronic tax filing system permanent. It also extended an invitation to all 50 states and the District of Columbia to participate in the initiative, allowing taxpayers to file their returns through the programme by 2025. Also read: Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean The Direct File pilot scheme was launched in March 2024. However, private tax preparation firms have strongly opposed the initiative, as they have profited substantially from charging individuals for tax filing services. Commercial tax preparation companies argue that sufficient free filing options are already available. Several organisations, including private tax firms, provide free online tax preparation assistance, though eligibility is often restricted by income limits. While fillable forms are accessible via the IRS website, they can be complex, requiring taxpayers to manually calculate their tax liability. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director In May last year, the IRS confirmed that the Direct File programme would become permanent. Initially trialled in 12 states, it has since expanded to 25 states. According to an IRS report from October 2024, users of the pilot programme claimed more than $90 million in refunds. A 2023 poll conducted by Navigator showed that 76% of registered voters supported the IRS-run free and simplified tax filing option. The same survey found that approval for the "Direct eFile" tool was particularly high among tax filers earning under $50,000 (77%), individuals aged 18 to 34 (81%), and Black taxpayers (80%), as reported by the Economic Security Project. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?

Anti-ageing influencer Bryan Johnson walked out of a podcast with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath citing "poor air quality". Taking to the social media platform X, the millionaire said his skin started to "break out in a rash" and eyes and throat started burning as the air purifier he was carrying turned ineffective due to the severity of the air.&nbsp;
Johnson, 47, recently visited India to record a podcast with Kamath for his show "WTF" in a five-star hotel, but despite wearing the N95 mask and an air purifier near him, he left the room mid-way. The AQI was 130 at that time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-is-this-anti-ageing-drug-brayan-johnson-is-warning-about-8624001">What is this 'anti-ageing' drug Bryan Johnson is warning about?</a>
"When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality," Johnson wrote on X on Monday (Feb 3).&nbsp;
He said Kamath was a "gracious host" and he was having a great time with him.&nbsp;
"The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air, which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective," he wrote.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q8tywf-vg2gsjlr-7fofk0b4">
When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality. <a href="https://twitter.com/nikhilkamathcio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nikhilkamathcio</a> was a gracious host and we were having a great time. The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective. Inside,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/xTkpW567Xv">https://t.co/xTkpW567Xv</a>
&mdash; Bryan Johnson /dd (@bryan_johnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/bryan_johnson/status/1886473397355585703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Johnson said the 130 AQI was "equal to smoking 3.4 cigarettes for 24 hours of exposure."&nbsp;
<h2>Why air pollution isn't a 'national emergency'?&nbsp;</h2>
The anti-ageing influencer claimed that the air pollution in India has been so "normalised" that "no one even notices anymore despite the science of its negative effects being well known".&nbsp;
He called the situation in India "confusing" as everyone, including children from birth, are exposed to the pollution. Still no one, he claimed, wore a mask which could significantly decrease the exposure to the pollution.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bryan-johnson-expresses-love-for-baodi-and-jugaad-netizens-react-give-him-an-aadhaar-card-781797">Bryan Johnson expresses love for ba***odi and jugaad, netizens react 'give him an Aadhaar card'</a>
"The evidence shows that India would improve the health of its population more by cleaning up air quality than by curing all cancers," Johnson said in his X post.&nbsp;
He further questioned why the Indian government has not declared air pollution a "national emergency" yet.&nbsp;
"I don't know what interests, money and power keep things the way they are - but it's really bad for the entire country," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/age-reversing-expert-bryan-johnson-says-he-loved-being-in-india-but-is-shocked-by-781489">Age-reversing enterpreneur Bryan Johnson says he 'loved being in India', but is 'shocked by...'</a>
<h2>Obesity vs air pollution&nbsp;</h2>
Johnson further went on to compare the United States (US) with India and described that after returning from India, his eyes were "fresh" to see what has been normalised in the US - obesity.&nbsp;
"I saw obesity everywhere. 42.4% of Americans are obese and because I was around it all the time, I had been mostly oblivious to it," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/millionaire-bryan-johnson-says-longevity-pill-saved-dogs-life-human-trials-next-751647">Millionaire Bryan Johnson says &lsquo;longevity pill&rsquo; saved dog&rsquo;s life, &lsquo;human trials next&rsquo;</a>
He added that he believes obesity is worse than air pollution in the long term.&nbsp;
"Why wouldn't American leaders declare a national emergency on obesity? What interests, money and power keep things the way they are but are bad for the entire country," he used the same lines for the Trump administration.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World | Johnson, 47, recently visited India to record a podcast with Kamath for his show "WTF" in a five star hotel, but despite wearing the N95 mask and around an air purifier, he left the room mid-way. The AQI was 130 at that time. 

Anti-ageing influencer Bryan Johnson walked out of a podcast with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath citing "poor air quality". Taking to the social media platform X, the millionaire said his skin started to "break out in a rash" and eyes and throat started burning as the air purifier he was carrying turned ineffective due to the severity of the air. Johnson, 47, recently visited India to record a podcast with Kamath for his show "WTF" in a five-star hotel, but despite wearing the N95 mask and an air purifier near him, he left the room mid-way. The AQI was 130 at that time. Also read: What is this 'anti-ageing' drug Bryan Johnson is warning about? "When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality," Johnson wrote on X on Monday (Feb 3). He said Kamath was a "gracious host" and he was having a great time with him. "The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air, which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective," he wrote. When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality. @nikhilkamathcio was a gracious host and we were having a great time. The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective. Inside,… https://t.co/xTkpW567Xv — Bryan Johnson /dd (@bryan_johnson) February 3, 2025 Johnson said the 130 AQI was "equal to smoking 3.4 cigarettes for 24 hours of exposure." Why air pollution isn't a 'national emergency'? The anti-ageing influencer claimed that the air pollution in India has been so "normalised" that "no one even notices anymore despite the science of its negative effects being well known". He called the situation in India "confusing" as everyone, including children from birth, are exposed to the pollution. Still no one, he claimed, wore a mask which could significantly decrease the exposure to the pollution. Also read: Bryan Johnson expresses love for ba***odi and jugaad, netizens react 'give him an Aadhaar card' "The evidence shows that India would improve the health of its population more by cleaning up air quality than by curing all cancers," Johnson said in his X post. He further questioned why the Indian government has not declared air pollution a "national emergency" yet. "I don't know what interests, money and power keep things the way they are - but it's really bad for the entire country," he said. Also read: Age-reversing enterpreneur Bryan Johnson says he 'loved being in India', but is 'shocked by...' Obesity vs air pollution Johnson further went on to compare the United States (US) with India and described that after returning from India, his eyes were "fresh" to see what has been normalised in the US - obesity. "I saw obesity everywhere. 42.4% of Americans are obese and because I was around it all the time, I had been mostly oblivious to it," he said. Also read: Millionaire Bryan Johnson says ‘longevity pill’ saved dog’s life, ‘human trials next’ He added that he believes obesity is worse than air pollution in the long term. "Why wouldn't American leaders declare a national emergency on obesity? What interests, money and power keep things the way they are but are bad for the entire country," he used the same lines for the Trump administration. (With inputs from agencies)

'My eyes and throat burn': Anti-ageing influencer Bryan Johnson walks out of Nikhil Kamath's podcast midway due to 'poor air quality'

Billionaire Elon Musk has joined a similar suit of business leaders who support long working hours.
In a post shared on his social media platform X, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has said that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees work 120 hours a week. Musk is leading the department, which is aimed at cutting federal spending.
Musk&rsquo;s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day in a week, sparking a debate on work-life balance.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-akash-bobba-22-year-old-indian-origin-tech-prodigy-hired-by-musks-doge-8688462">Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?</a>
&ldquo;DOGE is working 120 hour a week. Our bureaucratic opponents optimistically work 40 hours a week. That is why they are losing so fast,&rdquo; Musk posted on X, replying to a post attacking Democrats.
<h2>Internet divided over Musk's opinion on working hours</h2>
Several people commented on the post about the reported unrealistic working hours of DOGE employees.
&ldquo;While working for fed gov, I learned that it's illegal to work unauthorized overtime. Doing so obligates the government to pay, because slavery is illegal,&rdquo; a user wrote raising questions about the legality of the long working hours. &ldquo;So how are federal staff in DOGE legally putting in these hours? Multiple shifts?&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
&ldquo;Elon Musk has no actual authority to be able to access every American's private financial and personal information. I doubt MAGAs know or understand the impact of what you are doing,&rdquo; another commented on the billionaire&rsquo;s post.
A user who found it &ldquo;hard to believe", wrote, &ldquo;You have, 5.46 hrs remaining daily to drive home to office, to take a bath, to eat and to sleep, to take care of your family.&rdquo; He asked, &ldquo;Do you think someone can spend that time to work for at least 6 months?&rdquo; A user replied to this by saying, &ldquo;You have obviously never worked in surgery. I routinely worked 100-120 a week. Did it at one job for 10 years. It&rsquo;s why I&rsquo;ve been working optional since my late 40s.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500">Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
Another criticised Musk&rsquo;s remarks saying, &ldquo;120-hour weeks? That's not a flex, it's a red flag. Overworked devs make mistakes. Quality &gt; quantity in crypto. DOGE might be digging its own grave.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Billionaire Elon Musk’s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day, sparking a debate on work-life balance.

Billionaire Elon Musk has joined a similar suit of business leaders who support long working hours. In a post shared on his social media platform X, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has said that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees work 120 hours a week. Musk is leading the department, which is aimed at cutting federal spending. Musk’s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day in a week, sparking a debate on work-life balance. Also read | Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? “DOGE is working 120 hour a week. Our bureaucratic opponents optimistically work 40 hours a week. That is why they are losing so fast,” Musk posted on X, replying to a post attacking Democrats. Internet divided over Musk's opinion on working hours Several people commented on the post about the reported unrealistic working hours of DOGE employees. “While working for fed gov, I learned that it's illegal to work unauthorized overtime. Doing so obligates the government to pay, because slavery is illegal,” a user wrote raising questions about the legality of the long working hours. “So how are federal staff in DOGE legally putting in these hours? Multiple shifts?” Also read | President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk “Elon Musk has no actual authority to be able to access every American's private financial and personal information. I doubt MAGAs know or understand the impact of what you are doing,” another commented on the billionaire’s post. A user who found it “hard to believe", wrote, “You have, 5.46 hrs remaining daily to drive home to office, to take a bath, to eat and to sleep, to take care of your family.” He asked, “Do you think someone can spend that time to work for at least 6 months?” A user replied to this by saying, “You have obviously never worked in surgery. I routinely worked 100-120 a week. Did it at one job for 10 years. It’s why I’ve been working optional since my late 40s.” Also read | Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink Another criticised Musk’s remarks saying, “120-hour weeks? That's not a flex, it's a red flag. Overworked devs make mistakes. Quality > quantity in crypto. DOGE might be digging its own grave.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark

North Korean soldiers previously fighting alongside Russia's army on the Kursk front line appear not to have been engaged in combat since mid-January, South Korea's spy agency told AFP Tuesday (Feb 4), after Ukraine claimed they had been withdrawn following heavy losses.
"Since mid-January, it appears that the North Korean troops deployed to the Kursk region of Russia have not engaged in combat," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-yoon-discusses-north-korean-troops-in-russia-with-trump-774550">South Korea&rsquo;s Yoon discusses North Korean troops in Russia with Trump</a>
"One reason for this may be the occurrence of many casualties, but the exact details are still being monitored," it added in a statement. Ukraine's military said Friday it believed North Korean soldiers deployed to the front line in Kursk had been "withdrawn" after suffering heavy losses.
Western, South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence agencies say Pyongyang deployed more than 10,000 troops to support Russian forces fighting in its western Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a shock cross-border offensive in August.
Neither Pyongyang nor Moscow have officially confirmed the troop deployment, but the two countries signed an agreement, including a mutual defence element, when Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare visit to the nuclear-armed North last year.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-another-425-million-aid-to-ukraine-amid-north-korean-troops-in-russia-772708">US announces another $425 million aid to Ukraine, amid North Korean troops in Russia</a>
Kyiv captured dozens of border settlements in the operation -- the first time a foreign army had crossed into Russian territory since the Second World War -- in an embarrassing setback for the Kremlin.
The North Korean deployment was supposed to reinforce Russia's army and help it expel Ukraine's troops -- but nearly six months on Ukraine still holds swathes of Russian territory.
Ukraine previously said it had captured or killed several North Korean soldiers in Kursk.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has published footage of interrogations with what he said were North Korean prisoners captured by his army on the Kursk front.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-launches-new-mobilisation-drive-amid-reports-of-north-korean-troops-in-action-in-ukraine-771902">Kyiv launches new mobilisation drive amid reports of North Korean troops 'in action' in Ukraine</a>
Ukrainian officials have said wounded North Korean troops were blowing themselves up with grenades rather than being taken alive. Kyiv and the West had denounced their deployment as a major escalation in the three-year conflict.
Seoul has previously said that due to losses among its forces, North Korea is preparing for additional deployment to Ukraine.
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in December that Pyongyang is "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers" to aid Russia's war effort.
Pyongyang and Moscow have deepened political, military and cultural ties since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pentagon-says-north-korea-has-sent-10000-troops-to-back-russia-in-ukraine-war-771516">US ups earlier estimates, claims 10,000 North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine war</a>
In a New Year's letter, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hailed Putin and made a possible reference to the war in Ukraine.
He said 2025 would be the year "when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory".
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | Western, South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence agencies say Pyongyang deployed more than 10,000 troops to support Russian forces fighting in its western Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a shock cross-border offensive in August.

North Korean soldiers previously fighting alongside Russia's army on the Kursk front line appear not to have been engaged in combat since mid-January, South Korea's spy agency told AFP Tuesday (Feb 4), after Ukraine claimed they had been withdrawn following heavy losses. "Since mid-January, it appears that the North Korean troops deployed to the Kursk region of Russia have not engaged in combat," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said. Also read: South Korea’s Yoon discusses North Korean troops in Russia with Trump "One reason for this may be the occurrence of many casualties, but the exact details are still being monitored," it added in a statement. Ukraine's military said Friday it believed North Korean soldiers deployed to the front line in Kursk had been "withdrawn" after suffering heavy losses. Western, South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence agencies say Pyongyang deployed more than 10,000 troops to support Russian forces fighting in its western Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a shock cross-border offensive in August. Neither Pyongyang nor Moscow have officially confirmed the troop deployment, but the two countries signed an agreement, including a mutual defence element, when Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare visit to the nuclear-armed North last year. Also read: US announces another $425 million aid to Ukraine, amid North Korean troops in Russia Kyiv captured dozens of border settlements in the operation -- the first time a foreign army had crossed into Russian territory since the Second World War -- in an embarrassing setback for the Kremlin. The North Korean deployment was supposed to reinforce Russia's army and help it expel Ukraine's troops -- but nearly six months on Ukraine still holds swathes of Russian territory. Ukraine previously said it had captured or killed several North Korean soldiers in Kursk. President Volodymyr Zelensky has published footage of interrogations with what he said were North Korean prisoners captured by his army on the Kursk front. Also read: Kyiv launches new mobilisation drive amid reports of North Korean troops 'in action' in Ukraine Ukrainian officials have said wounded North Korean troops were blowing themselves up with grenades rather than being taken alive. Kyiv and the West had denounced their deployment as a major escalation in the three-year conflict. Seoul has previously said that due to losses among its forces, North Korea is preparing for additional deployment to Ukraine. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in December that Pyongyang is "preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers" to aid Russia's war effort. Pyongyang and Moscow have deepened political, military and cultural ties since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Also read: US ups earlier estimates, claims 10,000 North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine war In a New Year's letter, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hailed Putin and made a possible reference to the war in Ukraine. He said 2025 would be the year "when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korean troops deployed in Kursk region not engaged in combat since mid-Jan, says S Korea

In a further escalation of the US-China trade war, Beijing announced on Tuesday (Feb 4) that it would impose 15 per cent tariffs on imports of coal and liquefied natural gas from the United States.
"A 15 percent tariff will be imposed on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG)," Beijing's finance ministry said, adding the tariffs come into force next Monday.
The finance ministry also unveiled 10 percent tariffs on imports from the United States of crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement vehicles and pickup trucks.
China said that the measures were retaliatory and in response to the "unilateral tariff hike" by Washington.
<h2>China files complaint with WTO over US tariffs</h2>
Beijing further said that it had filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization "to defend its legitimate rights and interests" in response to hiked US tariffs on Chinese goods.
"China has filed a case against the US tariff measures under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism," the commerce ministry said in a statement, adding the US actions were of a "malicious nature".&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-firmly-opposes-new-us-tariffs-vows-countermeasures-8682843">Also read: China 'firmly opposes' tariffs imposed by US, vows 'countermeasures'</a>
<h2>Beijing to probe Google over anti-monopoly violations</h2>
In addition to this, China said that it would launch a probe into the US tech Giant Google's violations of anti-monopoly laws.
Beijing's State Administration for Market Regulation said the US tech giant was "suspected of violating the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People's Republic of China".
It has "launched an investigation into Google in accordance with the law" as a result, the administration said in a statement.
<h2>Trump says US-China tariff talks likely in next 24 hours</h2>
China's move comes hours after US President Donald Trump on Monday said that talks between Washington and Beijing over the tariffs he imposed would likely be held in the next 24 hours.
While speaking to reporters at the White House before a sweeping 10 per cent duty was set to come into effect on Chinese imports, Trump said the talks would occur "probably over the next 24 hours."
<h2>'No winners in trade war'</h2>
Beijing had earlier released a statement saying that there are "no winners in a trade war or tariff war", adding that the additional duties would "inevitably affect and damage future bilateral cooperation on drug control".
This comes after Trump announced an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports, which he said would be imposed on top of existing duties.&nbsp;
China's commerce ministry released a statement on Sunday (Feb 2) slamming Washington's "erroneous practices", stating that Beijing was "strongly dissatisfied with this and firmly opposes it".
It added that the duties were "not only unhelpful in solving the US's own problems but also undermine normal economic and trade cooperation".
"China hopes that the United States will objectively and rationally view and deal with its own issues like fentanyl, rather than threatening other countries with tariffs at every turn," the ministry had said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: "A 15 percent tariff will be imposed on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG)," Beijing's finance ministry said, adding the tariffs come into force next Monday.

In a further escalation of the US-China trade war, Beijing announced on Tuesday (Feb 4) that it would impose 15 per cent tariffs on imports of coal and liquefied natural gas from the United States. "A 15 percent tariff will be imposed on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG)," Beijing's finance ministry said, adding the tariffs come into force next Monday. The finance ministry also unveiled 10 percent tariffs on imports from the United States of crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement vehicles and pickup trucks. China said that the measures were retaliatory and in response to the "unilateral tariff hike" by Washington. China files complaint with WTO over US tariffs Beijing further said that it had filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization "to defend its legitimate rights and interests" in response to hiked US tariffs on Chinese goods. "China has filed a case against the US tariff measures under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism," the commerce ministry said in a statement, adding the US actions were of a "malicious nature". Also read: China 'firmly opposes' tariffs imposed by US, vows 'countermeasures' Beijing to probe Google over anti-monopoly violations In addition to this, China said that it would launch a probe into the US tech Giant Google's violations of anti-monopoly laws. Beijing's State Administration for Market Regulation said the US tech giant was "suspected of violating the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People's Republic of China". It has "launched an investigation into Google in accordance with the law" as a result, the administration said in a statement. Trump says US-China tariff talks likely in next 24 hours China's move comes hours after US President Donald Trump on Monday said that talks between Washington and Beijing over the tariffs he imposed would likely be held in the next 24 hours. While speaking to reporters at the White House before a sweeping 10 per cent duty was set to come into effect on Chinese imports, Trump said the talks would occur "probably over the next 24 hours." 'No winners in trade war' Beijing had earlier released a statement saying that there are "no winners in a trade war or tariff war", adding that the additional duties would "inevitably affect and damage future bilateral cooperation on drug control". This comes after Trump announced an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports, which he said would be imposed on top of existing duties. China's commerce ministry released a statement on Sunday (Feb 2) slamming Washington's "erroneous practices", stating that Beijing was "strongly dissatisfied with this and firmly opposes it". It added that the duties were "not only unhelpful in solving the US's own problems but also undermine normal economic and trade cooperation". "China hopes that the United States will objectively and rationally view and deal with its own issues like fentanyl, rather than threatening other countries with tariffs at every turn," the ministry had said. (With inputs from agencies)

US-China trade war: China to impose 15 per cent tariff on imports of coal, LNG from US

US President Donald Trump has paused tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days following talks with leaders of both countries.
According to a report, a US military aircraft deported illegal Indian migrants on Monday (Feb 3).
Meanwhile, the White House released a video documenting the wins during the first two weeks of Trump's presidency.
In other news, as the winter transfer window for the 2024-25 season officially closes, Manchester City grabbed eyeballs with a whopping $224 million spent.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-pauses-tariffs-on-canada-and-us-for-30-days-8688095" rel="dofollow">'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/04/eN4xsw9u6dZhSTYNTAYy.png" alt=" 'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days Photograph: (AFP/Wion Web Team) ">
US President Donald Trump agreed to pause his new tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Monday (Feb 3) after a talk with the heads of both countries. This is the third time in two weeks that Trump has paused his 27 per cent tariffs plan on the US's closest economic partners.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-flight-deporting-migrants-to-india-report-8688470" rel="dofollow">US military flight deporting migrants to India: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/04/lXLK6CtUY1o2ZuAdlRiP.jpg" alt=" US military flight deporting migrants to India, official says Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
A US military aircraft deported illegal Indian migrants on Monday (Feb 3), according to a Reuters report. The migrants have departed for the country aboard C-17 aircraft and would arrive after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-just-getting-started-white-house-recaps-two-weeks-of-trump-presidency-in-95-seconds-8688269" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;We&rsquo;re just getting started&rsquo;: White House recaps two weeks of Trump presidency in 95 seconds</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/04/JWrYLEXHaeMhZ9FzO8zi.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump speaks to the press as he signs an executive order to create a US sovereign wealth fund, in the Oval Office of the White House on February 3, 2025, in Washington, DC. Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
The White House released a video on Monday (Feb 3) recapping the first two weeks of Donald Trump&rsquo;s second term in office. The video features press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who lists all the decisions made by the new president until now.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-spend-whopping-224mn-in-winter-transfer-window-despite-financial-charges-8688164" rel="dofollow">Manchester City spend whopping $224mn in winter transfer window despite financial charges</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/04/HNRXO6XaPvU1LCInl5t3.png" alt=" Manchester City spend whopping $224mn in winter transfer window despite financial charges ">
The winter transfer window for the 2024-25 season officially closed on Monday (Feb 3) as Premier League sides bolstered their sides ahead of a key run in the second half. While Aston Villa made smart business with the acquisition of key figures like Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford, Manchester City caught the eye with a whopping $224 million spent. The splurge comes days despite Man City facing 115 charges of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) sanctions.
Watch | Bangladesh protestors demand justice for victims of 2024 unrest
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0402_WION_DHAKA_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0402_WION_DHAKA_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=120&amp;tags=bangladesh, protests, victims" title="Bangladesh protestors demand justice for victims of 2024 unrest" id="PL_iframe_block-m6pzsiy6-gtg3lnmy-n4q6jw16"></iframe>
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World | Begin your day informed with WION's comprehensive morning news brief. Catch up on the latest headlines, insights, and global stories that matter to you.

US President Donald Trump has paused tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days following talks with leaders of both countries. According to a report, a US military aircraft deported illegal Indian migrants on Monday (Feb 3). Meanwhile, the White House released a video documenting the wins during the first two weeks of Trump's presidency. In other news, as the winter transfer window for the 2024-25 season officially closes, Manchester City grabbed eyeballs with a whopping $224 million spent. Click on the headlines for more 'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days US President Donald Trump agreed to pause his new tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Monday (Feb 3) after a talk with the heads of both countries. This is the third time in two weeks that Trump has paused his 27 per cent tariffs plan on the US's closest economic partners. US military flight deporting migrants to India: Report A US military aircraft deported illegal Indian migrants on Monday (Feb 3), according to a Reuters report. The migrants have departed for the country aboard C-17 aircraft and would arrive after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official. ‘We’re just getting started’: White House recaps two weeks of Trump presidency in 95 seconds The White House released a video on Monday (Feb 3) recapping the first two weeks of Donald Trump’s second term in office. The video features press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who lists all the decisions made by the new president until now. Manchester City spend whopping $224mn in winter transfer window despite financial charges The winter transfer window for the 2024-25 season officially closed on Monday (Feb 3) as Premier League sides bolstered their sides ahead of a key run in the second half. While Aston Villa made smart business with the acquisition of key figures like Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford, Manchester City caught the eye with a whopping $224 million spent. The splurge comes days despite Man City facing 115 charges of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) sanctions. Watch | Bangladesh protestors demand justice for victims of 2024 unrest

Morning news brief: Trump pauses tariffs on Canada, Mexico; US deports illegal Indian migrants, and more

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has employed six young engineers despite them being inexperienced in government affairs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500">Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
The appointment of the young minds, all aged from 19 to 24, barely out of college and one still in college, has sparked concerns among experts about their qualifications to handle government work and access to sensitive government data.&nbsp;
Among the chosen young minds is an Indian-origin engineer who has worked as an intern at Meta, Akash Bobba.&nbsp;
As per a report by WIRED and the now-deleted LinkedIn profile of Bobba, he attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
A social media user shared photos of four of the employed young engineers on X and wrote, "Wait my moot is running the treasury what."&nbsp;
Charis Zhang, an alumnus of UC Berkeley responded to the post narrating his interaction with Bobba and how he fixed his problem in a swift way.&nbsp;
"Let me tell you something about Akash. During a project at Berkeley, I accidentally deleted our entire codebase 2 days before the deadline. I panicked. Akash just stared at the screen, shrugged, and rewrote everything from scratch in one night&mdash;better than before. We submitted early and got first in the class. Many such stories. I trust him with everything I own," Zhang wrote on the social media platform X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/feels-like-a-hostile-takeover-federal-employees-concerned-as-trump-aide-musks-allies-lock-them-out-of-key-systems-8682197">'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out&nbsp;of&nbsp;key&nbsp;systems</a>
In internal government records, Bobba is called an "expert" &nbsp;at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). He used to report to Amanda Scales, the new chief of staff who was previously involved in hiring at Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, the report by WIRED stated.&nbsp;
<h2>Other young minds&nbsp;</h2>
Along with Akash Bobba, Edward Coristine, Luke Farritor, Gautier Cole Killian, Gavin Kliger, and Ethan Shaotran were also hired by Musk's department.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366">Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World |  Bobba has attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has employed six young engineers despite them being inexperienced in government affairs. Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink The appointment of the young minds, all aged from 19 to 24, barely out of college and one still in college, has sparked concerns among experts about their qualifications to handle government work and access to sensitive government data. Among the chosen young minds is an Indian-origin engineer who has worked as an intern at Meta, Akash Bobba. As per a report by WIRED and the now-deleted LinkedIn profile of Bobba, he attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk A social media user shared photos of four of the employed young engineers on X and wrote, "Wait my moot is running the treasury what." Charis Zhang, an alumnus of UC Berkeley responded to the post narrating his interaction with Bobba and how he fixed his problem in a swift way. "Let me tell you something about Akash. During a project at Berkeley, I accidentally deleted our entire codebase 2 days before the deadline. I panicked. Akash just stared at the screen, shrugged, and rewrote everything from scratch in one night—better than before. We submitted early and got first in the class. Many such stories. I trust him with everything I own," Zhang wrote on the social media platform X. Also read: 'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems In internal government records, Bobba is called an "expert" at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). He used to report to Amanda Scales, the new chief of staff who was previously involved in hiring at Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, the report by WIRED stated. Other young minds Along with Akash Bobba, Edward Coristine, Luke Farritor, Gautier Cole Killian, Gavin Kliger, and Ethan Shaotran were also hired by Musk's department. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?

A US military aircraft is deporting illegal migrants to India, marking the farthest destination for such flights under the Trump administration, according to a Reuters report.
The migrants have departed for the country aboard C-17 aircraft and would arrive after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official on Monday (Feb 3).
Additionally, the Pentagon has begun offering flights to deport over 5,000 immigrants currently in US custody in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California.
The military aircraft has so far transported migrants to Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras, as part of the deportation efforts.
Deporting migrants via a military flight is an expensive option, as a recent military deportation flight to Guatemala was estimated to have cost approximately $4,675 per migrant, according to Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-to-impose-15-tariff-on-imports-of-coal-lng-from-us-8688674">Also read: US-China trade war: China to impose 15 per cent tariff on imports of coal, LNG from US</a>
<h2>'Will facilitate return of Indian nationals,' says MEA</h2>
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 24, had stated that it would facilitate the return of Indian nationals "overstaying" or residing without proper documentation in the United States or "anywhere in the world."
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a press briefing in New Delhi, said, "We are against illegal immigration, especially because it is linked to several forms of organised crime."
He added, "For Indians not just in the United States, but anywhere in the world, if they are Indian nationals and they are overstaying, or they are in a particular country without proper documentation, we will take them back, provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality and that they are indeed Indians. If that happens to be the case, we will take things forward and facilitate their return to India."
The remarks came after the White House Press Secretary announced that the "largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway."
Karoline Leavitt, in a post on X, said, "The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q3uz2c-xbj1jr0k-gqgg57kr">
The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept.
&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1882614534609027221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
In another post, she said, "The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors. Deportation flights have begun. President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 24, had stated that it would facilitate the return of Indian nationals "overstaying" or residing without proper documentation in the United States or "anywhere in the world."

A US military aircraft is deporting illegal migrants to India, marking the farthest destination for such flights under the Trump administration, according to a Reuters report. The migrants have departed for the country aboard C-17 aircraft and would arrive after at least 24 hours, said a senior US official on Monday (Feb 3). Additionally, the Pentagon has begun offering flights to deport over 5,000 immigrants currently in US custody in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California. The military aircraft has so far transported migrants to Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras, as part of the deportation efforts. Deporting migrants via a military flight is an expensive option, as a recent military deportation flight to Guatemala was estimated to have cost approximately $4,675 per migrant, according to Reuters. Also read: US-China trade war: China to impose 15 per cent tariff on imports of coal, LNG from US 'Will facilitate return of Indian nationals,' says MEA India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 24, had stated that it would facilitate the return of Indian nationals "overstaying" or residing without proper documentation in the United States or "anywhere in the world." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a press briefing in New Delhi, said, "We are against illegal immigration, especially because it is linked to several forms of organised crime." He added, "For Indians not just in the United States, but anywhere in the world, if they are Indian nationals and they are overstaying, or they are in a particular country without proper documentation, we will take them back, provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality and that they are indeed Indians. If that happens to be the case, we will take things forward and facilitate their return to India." The remarks came after the White House Press Secretary announced that the "largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway." Karoline Leavitt, in a post on X, said, "The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept." The Trump Administration also deported hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals via military aircraft. The largest massive deportation operation in history is well underway. Promises made. Promises kept. — Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 24, 2025 In another post, she said, "The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals including a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors. Deportation flights have begun. President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration deporting illegal migrants to India aboard military aircraft: Report

The White House released a video on Monday (Feb 3) recapping the first two weeks of Donald Trump&rsquo;s second term in office. The video features press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who lists all the decisions made by the new president until now.
In the 95-second clip shared on X, Leavitt summarises Trump&rsquo;s moves on border security, the economy, energy, law and order, DEI, and 45 executive orders, which he signed after being sworn in as the US president on January 20.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-pauses-tariffs-on-canada-and-us-for-30-days-8688095">'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days</a>
<h2>Leavitt summarises Trump&rsquo;s wins</h2>
&ldquo;We are two weeks in and President Trump is already delivering big wins for the American people. Let's go through the facts,&rdquo; Leavitt said in the video.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇺🇸PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT: In just 2 weeks, President Trump is delivering HUGE wins&mdash;securing our border, restoring law &amp; order, unleashing energy, and more.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> Karoline Leavitt breaks it down in 95 seconds! ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/0ZkClM2MxQ">pic.twitter.com/0ZkClM2MxQ</a>
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1886572458460774534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&ldquo;On the borders, President Trump declared a national emergency, deployed the military, ended catch and release and reinstated remain in Mexico.&rdquo;
She added that illegal crossings at the border are down by 95 per cent. She also said that the construction of the border wall will be resumed and that the Colombian president has offered a government plane for the deportation of illegal Colombian immigrants.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-warns-of-more-tariffs-on-china-says-talks-expected-within-24-hours-beijing-says-no-winner-in-a-trade-war-8687954">Trump threatens China with more tariffs as he prepares to speak with Xi</a>
&ldquo;In economy and energy, President Trump unleashed American energy, declaring a national energy emergency and killed Joe Biden&rsquo;s radical electric vehicle mandate. Wall Street is booming, AI investments skyrocketed to $500 billion, and there&rsquo;s $20 billion flowing into US data centres,&rdquo; she said.
Trump is also working to restore law and order in the country. He labelled drug cartels as terrorist organizations, started deporting &ldquo;illegal aliens&rdquo;, and signed the Laken Riley Act into law.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-executive-order-us-treasury-department-sovereign-wealth-fund-tiktok-8687925">Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok</a>
Leavitt said President Trump signed over 45 executive orders, removed DEI from the government and military and ordered federal workers back.
&ldquo;President Trump signed more than 45 executive orders. DEI has been purged from the government and our military, and lazy federal workers have been ordered back to the office,&rdquo; she said.
Leavitt also talked about Trump&rsquo;s efforts to ensure free speech and transparency, saying that Trump has answered more press questions than Biden and reinstated hundreds of journalists. He also ended government censorship.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-travel-to-us-next-week-meet-president-donald-trump-8687911">PM Modi to travel to US next week, meet President Donald Trump</a>
&ldquo;And when it comes to free speech and transparency, President Trump took 12 times the amount of press questions in a week than Joe Biden did in the last two years. He reinstated 440 silenced journalists to the press room and ended government censorship,&rdquo; Leavitt said.
&ldquo;Promises made, promises kept. We are just getting started.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | In the 95-second clip shared on X,  Karoline Leavitt summarises Trump’s moves on border security, the economy, energy, law and order, DEI, and 45 executive orders, which he signed after being sworn in as the US president on January 20.

The White House released a video on Monday (Feb 3) recapping the first two weeks of Donald Trump’s second term in office. The video features press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who lists all the decisions made by the new president until now. In the 95-second clip shared on X, Leavitt summarises Trump’s moves on border security, the economy, energy, law and order, DEI, and 45 executive orders, which he signed after being sworn in as the US president on January 20. Also read | 'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days Leavitt summarises Trump’s wins “We are two weeks in and President Trump is already delivering big wins for the American people. Let's go through the facts,” Leavitt said in the video. 🇺🇸PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT: In just 2 weeks, President Trump is delivering HUGE wins—securing our border, restoring law & order, unleashing energy, and more.@PressSec Karoline Leavitt breaks it down in 95 seconds! ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/0ZkClM2MxQ — The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 4, 2025 “On the borders, President Trump declared a national emergency, deployed the military, ended catch and release and reinstated remain in Mexico.” She added that illegal crossings at the border are down by 95 per cent. She also said that the construction of the border wall will be resumed and that the Colombian president has offered a government plane for the deportation of illegal Colombian immigrants. Also read | Trump threatens China with more tariffs as he prepares to speak with Xi “In economy and energy, President Trump unleashed American energy, declaring a national energy emergency and killed Joe Biden’s radical electric vehicle mandate. Wall Street is booming, AI investments skyrocketed to $500 billion, and there’s $20 billion flowing into US data centres,” she said. Trump is also working to restore law and order in the country. He labelled drug cartels as terrorist organizations, started deporting “illegal aliens”, and signed the Laken Riley Act into law. Also read | Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok Leavitt said President Trump signed over 45 executive orders, removed DEI from the government and military and ordered federal workers back. “President Trump signed more than 45 executive orders. DEI has been purged from the government and our military, and lazy federal workers have been ordered back to the office,” she said. Leavitt also talked about Trump’s efforts to ensure free speech and transparency, saying that Trump has answered more press questions than Biden and reinstated hundreds of journalists. He also ended government censorship. Also read | PM Modi to travel to US next week, meet President Donald Trump “And when it comes to free speech and transparency, President Trump took 12 times the amount of press questions in a week than Joe Biden did in the last two years. He reinstated 440 silenced journalists to the press room and ended government censorship,” Leavitt said. “Promises made, promises kept. We are just getting started.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘We’re just getting started’: White House recaps two weeks of Trump presidency in 95 seconds

The United States (US) has indicated that scientists in Iran are exploring quick ways to develop nuclear weapons if the leadership of the Islamic nation decides to pursue one, The New York Times reported.&nbsp;
Information by the New American Intelligence said that Iran is looking for ways that would let the country convert its uranium stocks into a weapon within months instead of years, the report added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-oreshnik-missile-system-minimises-the-need-for-nuclear-weapons-783270">Putin says Oreshnik missile system minimises the need for nuclear weapons</a>
However, the report confirmed that no official decision has been made so far by the country.&nbsp;
It was reported that information regarding this was attained by the Biden administration and handed over to the White House after Donald Trump took office.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-everything-they-asked-irans-foreign-minister-hints-at-nuclear-weapons-program-if-sanctions-return-779821">'Did everything they asked,' Iran's foreign minister hints at nuclear weapons program if sanctions return</a>
The report claimed that the move could happen as Iran's military power has weakened due to the proxy forces and its failure to hit Israel. It said Tehran is anxious about new ways to respond to any potential strike by the US or Israel.&nbsp;
There is a concern among Iranian officials that Trump would empower Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to strike Iran's nuclear sites in his second term in the White House. They also speculate that the US president might tighten the sanctions on the oil industry of the country led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-analysis-of-putins-potential-choices-will-russia-resort-to-nuke-weapons-777647">Will Russia resort&nbsp;to using Nuclear weapons?&nbsp;An analysis of Putin's potential choices</a>
Earlier, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said that Iran was &ldquo;pressing the gas pedal&rdquo; on its enrichment of uranium to near weapons grade.
Grossi said that Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency that it would &ldquo;dramatically&rdquo; increase the enrichment of uranium to up to 60 per cent purity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-attacks-iran-researchers-say-irans-former-nuclear-weapons-test-building-missile-facilities-were-hit-771080">Israel attacks Iran: Researchers say Iran's former nuclear weapons test building, missile facilities were hit</a>
Western powers have called out the step saying there is no civil justification for enriching to that level of uranium.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | It was reported that the Biden administration attained the information and handed it over to the White House after Donald Trump took office. 

The United States (US) has indicated that scientists in Iran are exploring quick ways to develop nuclear weapons if the leadership of the Islamic nation decides to pursue one, The New York Times reported. Information by the New American Intelligence said that Iran is looking for ways that would let the country convert its uranium stocks into a weapon within months instead of years, the report added. Also read: Putin says Oreshnik missile system minimises the need for nuclear weapons However, the report confirmed that no official decision has been made so far by the country. It was reported that information regarding this was attained by the Biden administration and handed over to the White House after Donald Trump took office. Also read: 'Did everything they asked,' Iran's foreign minister hints at nuclear weapons program if sanctions return The report claimed that the move could happen as Iran's military power has weakened due to the proxy forces and its failure to hit Israel. It said Tehran is anxious about new ways to respond to any potential strike by the US or Israel. There is a concern among Iranian officials that Trump would empower Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to strike Iran's nuclear sites in his second term in the White House. They also speculate that the US president might tighten the sanctions on the oil industry of the country led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Also read: Will Russia resort to using Nuclear weapons? An analysis of Putin's potential choices Earlier, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said that Iran was “pressing the gas pedal” on its enrichment of uranium to near weapons grade. Grossi said that Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency that it would “dramatically” increase the enrichment of uranium to up to 60 per cent purity. Also read: Israel attacks Iran: Researchers say Iran's former nuclear weapons test building, missile facilities were hit Western powers have called out the step saying there is no civil justification for enriching to that level of uranium. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran looking for quick ways to build nuclear weapon, says US: Report

US President Donald Trump agreed to pause his new tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Monday (Feb 3) after a talk with the heads of both countries. This is the third time in two weeks that Trump has paused his 27 per cent tariffs plan on the US's closest economic partners.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-warns-of-more-tariffs-on-china-says-talks-expected-within-24-hours-beijing-says-no-winner-in-a-trade-war-8687954">Trump warns of more tariffs on China, says talks expected within 24 hours; Beijing says &lsquo;no winner in trade war&rsquo;</a>
Taking to social media, Trump wrote, &ldquo;I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final economic deal with Canada can be structured."&nbsp;
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He said, "FAIRNESS FOR ALL!&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-executive-order-us-treasury-department-sovereign-wealth-fund-tiktok-8687925">Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok</a>
The US president said that the Canadian PM has agreed to ensure the border safety of the United States. He said, "Canada will implement their $1.3 Billion Border plan, and as per Prime Minister Trudeau, will be, &ldquo;reinforcing the Border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl," adding that around 10,000 frontline personnel will be deployed to protect the border.&nbsp;
"As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that," Trump added.&nbsp;
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted on the social media platform X that a pause would occur while his country would work "together" with the US to launch a &ldquo;Canada-US Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-travel-to-us-next-week-meet-president-donald-trump-8687911">PM Modi to travel to US next week, meet President Donald Trump</a>
Meanwhile, after a "friendly" conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Trump said Mexico has "agreed to immediately supply 10,000 Mexican Soldiers on the Border separating Mexico and the United States."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-pauses-tariffs-on-mexico-for-one-month-8687899">Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Mexico for one month</a>
The pause of the new duties came for both Canada and Mexico, while the 10 per cent tariff on China is set to go into effect as scheduled on Tuesday.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | US President Donald Trump agreed to pause his new tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Monday (Feb 3) after a talk with the supremos of both countries. 


US President Donald Trump agreed to pause his new tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Monday (Feb 3) after a talk with the heads of both countries. This is the third time in two weeks that Trump has paused his 27 per cent tariffs plan on the US's closest economic partners. Also read: Trump warns of more tariffs on China, says talks expected within 24 hours; Beijing says ‘no winner in trade war’ Taking to social media, Trump wrote, “I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final economic deal with Canada can be structured." He said, "FAIRNESS FOR ALL!” Also read: Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok The US president said that the Canadian PM has agreed to ensure the border safety of the United States. He said, "Canada will implement their $1.3 Billion Border plan, and as per Prime Minister Trudeau, will be, “reinforcing the Border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl," adding that around 10,000 frontline personnel will be deployed to protect the border. "As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that," Trump added. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted on the social media platform X that a pause would occur while his country would work "together" with the US to launch a “Canada-US Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering.” Also read: PM Modi to travel to US next week, meet President Donald Trump Meanwhile, after a "friendly" conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Trump said Mexico has "agreed to immediately supply 10,000 Mexican Soldiers on the Border separating Mexico and the United States." WATCH: Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Mexico for one month The pause of the new duties came for both Canada and Mexico, while the 10 per cent tariff on China is set to go into effect as scheduled on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

'Fairness for all': Donald Trump pauses tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) indicated that the tariffs on Chinese goods could rise further, following the 10 per cent increase he imposed on Saturday. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump referred to the move as an &ldquo;opening salvo&rdquo; in efforts to address the trade imbalance between the two nations. His spokesperson also indicated that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Trump could speak with each other this week on the matter.
"It'll happen in the next couple of days," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-executive-order-us-treasury-department-sovereign-wealth-fund-tiktok-8687925" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok</a>
<h2>'No winner in a trade war'</h2>
In response, China has strongly criticised the tariff hike. On Monday, China&rsquo;s ambassador to the United Nations condemned Trump's imposition of the tariffs, stating that it violated World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. &ldquo;China firmly opposed to &lsquo;unwarranted increase&rsquo; in tariffs by Trump administration. In violation of World Trade Organisation rules, China will be filing a complaint,&rdquo; said Fu Cong, China&rsquo;s UN envoy. He warned that Beijing might have to take countermeasures against Washington, warning that there is &ldquo;no winner in a trade war&rdquo;. He urged the US to address its domestic issues instead of shifting blame, saying, &ldquo;US should look at its own problem with fentanyl rather than shifting the blame onto others.&rdquo; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
Fu said, &ldquo;If China, US can work together, we will be able to solve many problems and make the world a better place to live.&rdquo; He further questioned Washington&rsquo;s stance on Chinese companies, saying, &ldquo;Citing US concerns about Huawei, TikTok, DeepSeek, China&rsquo;s UN envoy asks how many more do you want to ban?&rdquo; Expressing concern over Washington&rsquo;s trade policies, he called for an end to reactionary decisions, stating, &ldquo;Need to see an end to &lsquo;knee-jerk&rsquo; reactions, they are not warranted.&rdquo; 
Trump&rsquo;s latest tariff increase raises the average duty on Chinese goods from approximately 20 per cent to 30 per cent. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: China’s ambassador to the United Nations condemned US President Donald Trump's tariffs saying that it violated World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) indicated that the tariffs on Chinese goods could rise further, following the 10 per cent increase he imposed on Saturday. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump referred to the move as an “opening salvo” in efforts to address the trade imbalance between the two nations. His spokesperson also indicated that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Trump could speak with each other this week on the matter. "It'll happen in the next couple of days," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. Also read: Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok 'No winner in a trade war' In response, China has strongly criticised the tariff hike. On Monday, China’s ambassador to the United Nations condemned Trump's imposition of the tariffs, stating that it violated World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. “China firmly opposed to ‘unwarranted increase’ in tariffs by Trump administration. In violation of World Trade Organisation rules, China will be filing a complaint,” said Fu Cong, China’s UN envoy. He warned that Beijing might have to take countermeasures against Washington, warning that there is “no winner in a trade war”. He urged the US to address its domestic issues instead of shifting blame, saying, “US should look at its own problem with fentanyl rather than shifting the blame onto others.” Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director Fu said, “If China, US can work together, we will be able to solve many problems and make the world a better place to live.” He further questioned Washington’s stance on Chinese companies, saying, “Citing US concerns about Huawei, TikTok, DeepSeek, China’s UN envoy asks how many more do you want to ban?” Expressing concern over Washington’s trade policies, he called for an end to reactionary decisions, stating, “Need to see an end to ‘knee-jerk’ reactions, they are not warranted.” Trump’s latest tariff increase raises the average duty on Chinese goods from approximately 20 per cent to 30 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump threatens China with more tariffs as he prepares to speak with Xi

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) signed an executive order directing the Treasury and Commerce Departments to establish a sovereign wealth fund. He said that it may purchase TikTok.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-warns-of-more-tariffs-on-china-says-talks-expected-within-24-hours-beijing-says-no-winner-in-a-trade-war-8687954" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump warns of more tariffs on China, says talks expected within 24 hours; Beijing says &lsquo;no winner in trade war&rsquo;</a>
The popular short-video platform, which has approximately 170 million users in the US, briefly went offline ahead of a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app or face a nationwide ban. The law was set to take effect on 19 January.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844">'Won't allow insubordination': US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes acting director of USAID</a>
After assuming office on 20 January, Trump signed an order delaying the enforcement of the ban on TikTok by 75 days. He has since confirmed discussions with various parties about acquiring TikTok and indicated that a decision regarding its future is likely in February.
Speaking to reporters about TikTok, Trump mentioned that Microsoft was among the companies interested in acquiring the platform. &ldquo;I would say yes&hellip; A lot of interest in TikTok. There&rsquo;s great interest in TikTok," he said.
In his first interview as the 47th US President, Trump dismissed concerns that China could be using TikTok to spy on American teenagers. &ldquo;Is it that important for China to be spying on young people? On young kids watching crazy videos?&rdquo; he asked.
He also questioned why there was little scrutiny over other products manufactured in China, including telephones and other devices.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643">Netanyahu on &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit to discuss Gaza ceasefire with Trump; Hamas signals readiness for next phase</a>
Earlier this month, the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok due to national security concerns related to the app&rsquo;s data privacy policies. However, Trump, who has acknowledged TikTok's role in helping him connect with younger voters during his campaign, has temporarily paused the ban. His executive order grants ByteDance 75 days to arrange a sale so that the app is no longer under Chinese ownership.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) signed an executive order directing the Treasury and Commerce Departments to establish a sovereign wealth fund. After assuming office, Trump signed an order delaying the TikTok ban by 75 days.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 3) signed an executive order directing the Treasury and Commerce Departments to establish a sovereign wealth fund. He said that it may purchase TikTok. Also read: Trump warns of more tariffs on China, says talks expected within 24 hours; Beijing says ‘no winner in trade war’ The popular short-video platform, which has approximately 170 million users in the US, briefly went offline ahead of a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app or face a nationwide ban. The law was set to take effect on 19 January. Also read: 'Won't allow insubordination': US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes acting director of USAID After assuming office on 20 January, Trump signed an order delaying the enforcement of the ban on TikTok by 75 days. He has since confirmed discussions with various parties about acquiring TikTok and indicated that a decision regarding its future is likely in February. Speaking to reporters about TikTok, Trump mentioned that Microsoft was among the companies interested in acquiring the platform. “I would say yes… A lot of interest in TikTok. There’s great interest in TikTok," he said. In his first interview as the 47th US President, Trump dismissed concerns that China could be using TikTok to spy on American teenagers. “Is it that important for China to be spying on young people? On young kids watching crazy videos?” he asked. He also questioned why there was little scrutiny over other products manufactured in China, including telephones and other devices. Also read: Netanyahu on ‘historic’ US visit to discuss Gaza ceasefire with Trump; Hamas signals readiness for next phase Earlier this month, the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok due to national security concerns related to the app’s data privacy policies. However, Trump, who has acknowledged TikTok's role in helping him connect with younger voters during his campaign, has temporarily paused the ban. His executive order grants ByteDance 75 days to arrange a sale so that the app is no longer under Chinese ownership. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel to the United States next week to meet US President Donald Trump. The expected dates of the PM&rsquo;s US travel are from 12th to 14th February. The visit of the Indian PM comes very early on in the term of the new US administration. In fact, PM Modi is among the first world leaders to meet US President Trump in the White House, following Israel PM Netanyahu, who is the first leader to meet Trump, and Jordan&rsquo;s King Abdullah II, who meets the US President on February 11th.
PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
During the January conversation, the two leaders discussed commitment to a stronger partnership between their countries and regional security issues in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on &lsquo;fair trade&rsquo; and increased procurement of US security equipment.
The White House said, &ldquo;Both leaders emphasised their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year.&rdquo;
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The call had then also set the stage for Modi&rsquo;s anticipated visit to the US in February 2025. &ldquo;The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations,&rdquo; the White House readout stated.
India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had represented India at Donald Trump&rsquo;s swearing-in ceremony as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 at the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. During his visit, Jaishankar held meetings with key representatives of the incoming Trump administration, including new US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, setting the tone for future diplomatic relations. In fact, the first bilateral meeting Rubio had after taking charge as the Secretary of State was with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. Immigration was an issue raised during the meeting by the US side, while the Indian side highlighted the delay in visa issuance.
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PM Modi will travel to the US from France following his participation in the Artificial Intelligence Summit in Paris. The summit, scheduled for February 10-11, will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies.
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World | India News: PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January, when they discussed commitment to a stronger partnership and regional security issues.

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel to the United States next week to meet US President Donald Trump. The expected dates of the PM’s US travel are from 12th to 14th February. The visit of the Indian PM comes very early on in the term of the new US administration. In fact, PM Modi is among the first world leaders to meet US President Trump in the White House, following Israel PM Netanyahu, who is the first leader to meet Trump, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II, who meets the US President on February 11th. PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on 27th January. Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink During the January conversation, the two leaders discussed commitment to a stronger partnership between their countries and regional security issues in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on ‘fair trade’ and increased procurement of US security equipment. The White House said, “Both leaders emphasised their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year.” Also read: Who are the 20 hostages in Gaza yet to be released by Hamas? The call had then also set the stage for Modi’s anticipated visit to the US in February 2025. “The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations,” the White House readout stated. India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had represented India at Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 at the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. During his visit, Jaishankar held meetings with key representatives of the incoming Trump administration, including new US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, setting the tone for future diplomatic relations. In fact, the first bilateral meeting Rubio had after taking charge as the Secretary of State was with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. Immigration was an issue raised during the meeting by the US side, while the Indian side highlighted the delay in visa issuance. Also read: Inside how Canada, Mexico, and China are firing back at Trump’s tariffs as he sets his sights on the EU PM Modi will travel to the US from France following his participation in the Artificial Intelligence Summit in Paris. The summit, scheduled for February 10-11, will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies. Also read: EU should do all to avert ‘totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars’, says Polish PM Donald Tusk

Indian PM Narendra Modi to meet US President Donald Trump next week

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