In response to Russian forces using Iranian drones in their attack on Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revoked the accreditation of the Iranian ambassador and reduced the Iranian diplomatic staff in Kyiv. Zelenskyy reported that Ukrainian forces had shot down eight Iranian-made drones during the conflict.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, announced that the accreditation of the Iranian ambassador would be revoked and that the Iranian diplomatic staff in Kyiv would be reduced due to Russian forces’ use of Iranian drones in attacking Ukraine.#Zelensky #LimitIranEmbassy pic.twitter.com/hrNZHuoG46

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 24, 2022

During its attack today against the Dnipropetrovsk region and Odesa, the Russian army used Iranian drones. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs must strongly react to this fact,” Zelenskyy stated in his speech. Zelensky added that the air defense systems of Ukraine’s Eastern and Southern Command downed six Iranian drones. Air defenses of the Navy brought one more to the ground. And just now, the South Command told him that another Iranian drone was downed by its air defenses.

As a result of this unfriendly action, Ukrainian diplomats have revoked the accreditation of the Iranian ambassador in Kyiv. In addition, they have significantly reduced the number of Iranian diplomats at the embassy. Furthermore, Kyiv and Washington have accused Iran of providing drones to Russia. Tehran has previously stated that the country would not assist either side in the conflict since it supports a peaceful resolution.

Respect for the Sovereignty of Ukraine

In response to the provision of weapons to Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko tweeted on Saturday that the Iranian Ambassador in Kyiv has been revoked accreditation, and a significant reduction of diplomatic personnel has been made at the Iranian embassy.

In response to Iran supplying weapons to Russia to use in its war against Ukraine, today we announced the revocation of accreditation of the Iranian Ambassador in Kyiv, and a significant drawdown of diplomatic personnel at the Iranian embassy.

— Oleg Nikolenko (@OlegNikolenko_) September 23, 2022

As reported by Agence France-Presse, the Ukrainian foreign ministry announced earlier that the temporary charge d’affaires of Iran in Ukraine had been summoned to comment on the issue. According to a ministry statement, the envoy was informed that Iranian weapons supplied to Russia “directly contradict the position of neutrality, respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity” and that such an act would seriously impact the relationship between Ukraine and Iran.

In a statement, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said four Shahed-136 “kamikaze” unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down over the sea near the port of Odesa. A separate statement from the Ukrainian Air Force indicated that a larger Iranian drone, the Mohajer-6, was downed, the Ukrainska Pravda newspaper reported in its first edition. British defense ministers supported a Ukrainian claim this week that Ukrainian forces may have taken out a Russian drone made by Iranians.

On Wednesday, the Defense Ministry of Russia released a military intelligence update that indicated that the country had deployed Iranian-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) during the nearly seven-month conflict in Ukraine.

The G7 Condemned Russia’s ‘Scam’ Referendum on Ukraine

Russia’s sham referendums have been condemned by the leaders of the Group of Seven leading industrial democracies, who claim it is Moscow’s effort to modify Ukraine’s status as a sovereign nation. The spokesman for the German government wrote in a statement that there is no way they will recognize these referendums, which appear to be a step towards annexation by the Russians.”

It was announced on Friday that Russia would hold referendums aimed at annexing four occupied regions of Ukraine, causing Kyiv and Western nations to condemn these ballots as shams, and they also pledged not to recognize the results. Ukrainian officials have reported that people have been prohibited from leaving certain occupied areas until after the four-day vote is completed, that armed groups have been entering homes, and that employees are being threatened with sacking if they do not participate.

Read Also: IAEA Urges Russian Forces to Flee from Ukraine Nuclear Plant

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U.S. officials have agreed to ease internet restrictions on Iran in response to a clampdown on protests sparked by the death of a woman in police custody. Anthony Blinken, the United States Secretary of State, said that the United States would take steps to ensure the Iranian people do not remain isolated and in the dark. In the future, American tech firms will have the opportunity to expand their operations in Iran because of the relaxation of software controls.

To counter Tehran’s clampdown on protests, which began after a woman was killed in police custody, the US has said it will ease Internet restrictions on Iran. Blinken said their goal is to ensure that the Iranian people are not left alone in the dark and isolated.#IranViolence pic.twitter.com/hIEGnPdlwr

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 24, 2022

Iran has experienced the worst unrest in years, with at least 35 people being killed. Following her arrest by the morality police last week for alleged violations of headscarf rules, Mahsa Amini, 22, fell into a coma. It is reported that officers smacked Amini’s head against a vehicle and beat her with a baton. She suffered a sudden heart attack, and there is no evidence of any mistreatment, according to the police report. On Friday, anti-government protests were ongoing for eight consecutive nights, while pro-government rallies were also held in Tehran and other cities.

U.S. Treasury will Help the Iranian People Combat Government Surveillance

Using Blinken’s words, the partial relaxation of internet restrictions represents a concrete step toward providing meaningful assistance to Iranians who seek to have their fundamental rights respected. His comments indicate that Iran’s government is “afraid of its own people.” In announcing the move, the U.S. Treasury said it would help counter Iranian attempts to “surveil and censor” its citizens. However, it is unlikely to make an immediate impact since it does not eliminate all tools of communication repression.

Elon Musk responded to Blinken’s announcement by announcing on Twitter that he would supply internet service to Iran through his satellite internet company, Starlink. The Starlink Satellite system is designed for people living in remote areas without access to high-speed Internet. It provides internet services through a vast network of satellites. A US government official stated that the updated license did not cover hardware supplied by Musk’s company. Still, his company and others were welcome to apply for permission to purchase such hardware.

Demonstrations in the Capital and Surrounding Cities

In videos posted to social media platforms on Friday night, large groups of protesters were gathered after dark in several Tehran neighborhoods. Additionally, other incidents occurred in other parts of the city. As part of the protests, several women have removed their hijabs and burned them in front of cheering crowds or cut their hair off. Even though demonstrations spread across much of the country, many early protests were concentrated in western Iran, notably in areas with a large Kurdish population, which was the group Amini belonged to.

Friday reports indicated a demonstration in Oshnavieh, West Azerbaijan Province, which borders Kurdistan. In addition, demonstrators had captured large areas of the city. Reports circulating Friday suggested that a protest had taken place in Oshnavieh, in West Azerbaijan Province, near the border with Kurdistan, and that demonstrators had seized a significant portion of the city.

Tonight, protesters seem to have taken control of parts of the city of Oshnavieh, in Iran’s West Azerbaijan province. #MahsaAmini #iran pic.twitter.com/Wft497BJe6

— Rana Rahimpour (@ranarahimpour) September 23, 2022

A demonstration was reported on Friday in Oshnavieh, which borders Kurdistan in West Azerbaijan. The demonstrators had taken control of large areas of the city. A protest was said to have taken place in Oshnavieh, near the Kurdistan border, in West Azerbaijan Province, and demonstrators seized a substantial portion of the city, according to reports circulating Friday.

“Under no circumstances will we allow the security of people to be compromised,” he told reporters after returning from the U.N. General Assembly. After stating that Iran’s “enemies” were taking advantage of the unrest, Raisi advised that the government would listen to criticism regarding the death of Amini but that it would not act in response to “rioting.”

The Death of Amini Exposes Tehran’s Rival Faces

During the past week, protesters have taken to the streets of the capital each evening since the 22-year-old girl died three days after he was arrested for wearing an Islamic headscarf “improperly.” Several social media images indicate that female demonstrators have even burned their headscarves in protest of the morality police enforcing the dress code that Amini is alleged to have violated. Women must wear loose-fitting trousers under their coats under rules imposed shortly after the Islamic revolution of 1979. The wearing of ripped jeans and trousers that are shorter than full length is prohibited.

A counter-rally of supporters of the mandatory dress code took place on Friday near Hijab Street, the site of nightly protests outside Tehran University. “For many opponents of the morality police, the hijab issue is merely a pretext to disrupt the security of our country,” noted a prayer leader wearing the black turban that marks Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W.W.)’s descent. “Wearing a headscarf is an essential part of Iranian national and religious identity,” said the 40-year-old cleric, who preferred only to be addressed by his family name Nadali.

As the cleric asserted, “the real Iranians are those here today,” the other demonstrators nodded in agreement, but a student representing the nearby polytechnic university interrupted him. “The Iranian people are one nation,” Hossein Zarin-Eghbal, 24, retorted, stating he was joining the counterdemonstration at the request of a revolutionary organization, the Islamic Development Coordination Council.

Read Also: Russian President Meets with Turkish and Iranian Leaders

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Having taken over the investigation of the Mar-a-Lago documents last month, the special master has ordered the lawyers of former President Donald Trump to produce evidence to support their out-of-court claims that the FBI planted evidence at the property during their search. During a filing Thursday, Judge Raymond Dearie, the court-appointed special master, stated in a letter that Trump’s team must submit a sworn declaration stating if they believe that the Justice Department included any items that were not seized during the search of Mar-a-Lago in its “inventory” of materials taken from Mar-a-Lago.

Defendant Trump’s legal team has been ordered by the United States judge assigned to review the documents seized from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate last month to provide evidence to support his unsubstantiated claim that FBI planted some of the files.#TrumpCoupAttempt #FBI #MarALago pic.twitter.com/TbARkDzrGj

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 23, 2022

A copy of the Detailed Property Inventory must be included with the declaration, as well as a list of any specific items mentioned in it that Plaintiff claims were not seized during the search on August 8, 2022, according to the order issued by Dearie. There is some evidence that the FBI planted evidence at Mar-a-Lago during the search on August 8. Trump, several of his lawyers, and several of his outside conservative allies have publicly claimed this.

FBI Planted Evidence During Search – Trump

However, no evidence has been delivered to substantiate these allegations. As part of Thursday’s order, Dearie outlined a plan for how the special master review will proceed, two days after holding his first in-person meeting with federal prosecutors and Trump’s lawyers. Trump suggested Wednesday night that evidence was planted in the search by the FBI. In response to Sean Hannity’s question, he asked, “Did they drop anything into those stacks of Mar-a-Lago materials, or did it happen later?” When Hannity asked Trump if a video existed, he replied, “No, I don’t think so.”

In this case, the judge gave Trump’s lawyers a deadline of September 30, before which they must submit the sworn declaration. Additionally, he requested the DOJ to submit statements attesting to critical facts associated with the search that was key to his inquiry. FBI officials have previously declined to comment on allegations of impropriety and fraud during the search. A reporter asked FBI Director Christopher Wray last month about the possibility that federal agents planted evidence. Wray responded, “That’s not something I can discuss, so I recommend you contact the Justice Department.”

Witnesses Testify About Documents with Dearie Opening the Door

As outlined in a Thursday order, Dearie authorized holding a hearing to call “witnesses with knowledge of the relevant facts” to testify about the search at Mar-a-Lago and the materials seized from the property. The Trump team could be facing a put-up-or-shut-up situation in this regard since they have made various public statements about alleged government improprieties outside of court but have been much more restrained in court, where knowingly lying would be a criminal offense.

A copy of all seized materials – except those marked confidential – must also be provided to Trump’s lawyers by Monday. This inquiry aims to help Trump’s side determine what materials were taken from Mar-a-Lago and which materials should be protected by the attorney-client privilege or executive privilege. President Trump’s team must review all documents before October 14, but they will have to send “rolling” batches of their privilege designations throughout the process. Dearie ordered that both sides finish their reviews by October 21 and submit their final designations to him.

Additionally, the judge hinted that the Justice Department, a part of the executive branch, could still review some documents covered by executive privilege. However, there are key reasons federal prosecutors shouldn’t be allowed to view these privileged documents as part of the investigation – which is more nuanced than what Trump’s team has offered. Dearie also suggested that some proceedings be sent back to Magistrate Judge Bruce Reinhart, who approved the search warrant after finding probable causes to search Mar-a-Lago. Trump supporters have since harassed this judge with death threats and online vitriol, and Trump has made several false statements about him on public forums.

The Retired Judge Asked to Assist in Review

In addition, Dearie has engaged a retired federal judge from the Eastern District of New York to help him in his review, and he will also work with staff from the Eastern District of New York on the review of materials. According to Dearie, James Orenstein, the judge appointed to the case, “has extensive experience with complex case management, privilege review, warrant procedures,” as well as other pertinent topics, and he has a top-secret security clearance, which makes him the ideal choice for the job.

His biography page stated that Orenstein served on the prosecution team in the Oklahoma City bombings trials at the law firm where he previously worked. Former AG Merrick Garland also played a significant role in the Oklahoma City investigation. Due to his employment as a federal judge, Dearie declined to seek additional compensation as the special master. Based on a prior court ruling in the case, Orenstein was to receive $500 an hour, which Trump would cover.

Read Also: New York Attorney General Sues Trump for Fraud

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It is hoped that other nations will act upon the United States’ call for Russia to stop making nuclear threats and to end “the horror” of its war in Ukraine at a high-profile UN Security Council meeting on Thursday when top diplomats from all three countries spoke – however, they did not reach an agreement.

A significant development in the war happened this week: Russia invoked a portion of its reserves for the first time since deadly World War II during the session held alongside the annual UN General Assembly gathering of world leaders. In the meantime, President Vladimir Putin stated that if there were a threat against his country’s territory, his nuclear-armed country would use “all available means.”

Blinken called on all members of the UN Security Council to “send a clear message” to Russia, urging it to cease its nuclear threats. Previously, Putin said that the country would “certainly use all means” to defend its territory and its citizens if its territory is threatened. pic.twitter.com/RvkIJ1ufeQ

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 23, 2022

Western Nations Slammed Putin’s Announcement of Referendum

Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, viewed Putin’s remarks as particularly jeopardized given the upcoming referendum in the Russian-controlled parts of eastern and southern Ukraine regarding the possibility of becoming part of Russia. It is important to note that Western nations condemned the results of those elections as illegal and non-binding. In the wake of these events, Moscow may consider any Ukrainian attempt to retake those areas as an attack on Russian territory, Blinken said.

“Each council member should convey to the rest of the council that these reckless nuclear threats must be stopped at all costs,” he added. As part of his remarks during the council meeting, France called to discuss accountability for alleged abuses and atrocities during nearly seven months of the war; Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov did not mention his country’s nuclear capability or upcoming troop mobilization.

Instead, Lavrov reiterated the usual Russian claims that Kyiv has oppressed Russian speakers in Ukraine’s east for a long time – one of the reasons Moscow has offered for the attack – and that Western support for Kyiv is a direct threat to his country. In particular, he found it cynical of states to supply Ukraine with weapons and train its soldiers, arguing that they intended to prolong the fighting so Russia would become exhausted and weak.

Tell Putin to Stop the Horror

Lavrov described the policy as implying the direct involvement of the West in the conflict. Additionally, he stated that the Ukrainian situation had become a staging ground for anti-Russian threats against Russian security, and his country would not accept this situation. Since the conflict erupted in February, several contentious meetings have taken place in Ukraine. However, Thursday’s session was the most significant of those discussions.

It shows the extent to which President Putin has disregarded the United Nations Charter, the UN General Assembly, and this council by adding fuel to the fire he has started by choosing this week during the United Nations gathering. Blinken told foreign ministers around the famous horseshoe-shaped table of the group. Please tell President Putin to end the horror he has started. We urge him to refrain from placing his own interests above the interests of the rest of the world, including those of his own people,” Blinken concluded.

Russia has a Veto Power

As a permanent member, Russia has veto power, so no action is expected against it by the council. However, the meeting was still a scarce occasion for top diplomats from Ukraine and Russia to come together in the same room. Furthermore, Lavrov is under United States sanctions, which further enhanced the rarity of the meeting. In an indication of the charged environment, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba obstructs council staffers as they prepare to mark Ukraine’s seat next to Russia’s. In the end, the placard was moved to a different location.

Before the meeting, Kuleba joked that he would maintain a “social distance” from Lavrov. But it turned out he didn’t have to: The Russian appeared just before speaking and left right after, prompting Kuleba to quip later in his speech that “Russian diplomats flee almost as quickly as Russian soldiers.” Moreover, according to James Cleverly, the British Foreign Secretary didn’t think Lavrov was interested in hearing the council’s collective condemnation.

Lavrov’s decision not to hear other speakers in person was described by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre as a sign of insecurity in an interview with The Associated Press. A private exchange took place between Lavrov and his allies in which the latter accused the United States of concealing alleged misdeeds by the Ukrainian government under the reasoning that “he’s a son of a bitch, but he’s our son of a bitch.” Kuleba later criticized Russia for using “inappropriate slang.”

Read Also: Moscow Openly Violated UN charter – Biden

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World leaders gathered on Wednesday for a second day at the United Nations General Assembly. United States President Joe Biden accused Russia of “shamelessly violating the core tenets” of the U.N. charter. Biden discussed the war in Ukraine, climate change, and nuclear disarmament at the annual meeting, warning that Moscow was launching a “brutal and needless war” in Ukraine and mobilizing a “sham referendum” to annex parts of the territory it occupies.

In remarks to world leaders gathered for a second day at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday, Biden highlighted Russia’s “shameless violations” of the United Nations charter. Biden said that Russia had initiated a brutal, unnecessary war in Ukraine.#UNGA77 pic.twitter.com/MwNwu81TqT

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 22, 2022

The world should view these outrageous acts for what they are. In his speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed he had to act in response to a threat. However, no one threatened Russia, and no one except Russia sought conflict,” he said. Moreover, he alluded to the possibility of using nuclear weapons to protect Russia, considering Russia’s threat to use all means at its disposal to defend itself.

Al Jazeera quoted William Courtney saying that Russia appeared willing to escalate the situation. “How would Russia benefit from using a nuclear weapon if employing one?” He inquired.

Ongoing Arms Race between World Countries

Aside from Russia, China is also engaged in an unprecedented arms race, according to the U.S. president, who also stressed that Washington does not seek conflict or a return to the Cold War era. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi stated earlier in his address that Tehran would not seek nuclear weapons and would be seriously interested in renewing the atomic pact officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2015.

In Raisi’s words, “The only thing we wish for is the adherence to commitments we have made,” he said. Under the regime of former President Donald Trump, he demanded guarantees from the U.S. government that they would not abandon the nuclear deal again in the future as they did in 2018.

Violations of Human Rights

In an apparent reference to the recent death of a woman in police custody, Raisi slammed what he called the West’s double standards regarding human rights. In a report from the United Nations headquarters in New York, Al Jazeera’s correspondent James Bays said that Raisi is under tremendous pressure. Demonstrations in Tehran demanded accountability for Mahsa Amini’s death as protesters gathered in front of the U.N. building.

Iranian authorities have reported that Amini passed away in the early hours of September 16, several days after suffering from a stroke and cardiac arrest. After being arrested for wearing the hijab inappropriately, the woman was allegedly beaten to death with a stick. However, the Iranian police denied the allegations. Joe Biden, president of the United States, said Americans “remain united with the courageous women of Iran at the protestors who are staging demonstrations to protect their basic rights.”

Additionally, he explicitly referred to human rights abuses perpetrated by the Chinese, Myanmar, and Taliban forces. Biden added, “The United States will always uphold human rights and the United Nations Charter’s values throughout the country and across the world.” Although he did not indicate any new peace initiative, the American president reiterated his country’s commitment to establishing a Palestinian state.

Aside from this, Washington also expressed support for expanding the U.N. Security Council to ensure that African and Latin American countries are adequately represented. Russia is one of five permanent members of the U.N. body and has five non-permanent members.

Climate Change

President Biden highlighted the effects of the climate crisis and said his country was prepared to work together to resolve it. It is well known that we are already facing a climate crisis. After this past year, no one seems to doubt it. The majority of Pakistan is under water and in need of assistance,” he added, referring to the catastrophic flooding in Pakistan caused by climate change.

During his primary address to the United Nations General Assembly following winning elections last month, Kenyan President William Ruto echoed Biden’s warning on the effects of climate change. In his remarks, Ruto stated, “the wellbeing of the human race is under threat.”. He noted that “the health of the planet requires urgent attention.”

Three consecutive poor rainy seasons have resulted in the worst drought in the Horn of Africa since 1981. In Kenya, it is estimated that more than 3.1 million people suffer from severe food insecurity. Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, U.N. Secretary-General António Ruto condemned the “exclusionist nationalism,” which he said had undermined the prospects for collective action and undermined the resolve of the international community to protect the world’s most vulnerable. Instead, poorer nations should be included in global governance to “build back better” from the bottom up.

Read Also: The US Would Defend Taiwan Against Chinese Invasion – Biden

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The New York attorney general filed a lawsuit against former Republican President Donald Trump. The lawsuit alleges that he unlawfully inflated his net worth to acquire loans and other benefits worth millions of dollars. On Wednesday, a lawsuit alleging fraud and misrepresentation was filed in Manhattan state court accusing the Trump Organization of making false statements about Trump’s financial position from 2011 to 2021.

Tweet

Among the defendants are Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Ivanka Trump, the former president’s daughter. Using his children to help him, Trump unlawfully inflates and deflates his net worth several times to get loans, obtain insurance benefits, and reduce taxes, New York Attorney General Letitia James stated on Twitter. Briefly, Trump lied to acquire substantial financial advantages for himself.

With the help of Donald Jr., Eric, Ivanka, and other defendants, Trump variously unlawfully inflated and deflated his net worth by billions to obtain and satisfy loans, get insurance benefits, and pay lower taxes.

In short, he lied to gain massive financial benefits for himself.

— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) September 21, 2022

Furthermore, James stated that allegations of criminal misconduct would be referred to federal prosecutors in Manhattan and the Internal Revenue Service. The former president denied transgression and characterized the investigation into his business practices as a politically motivated witch hunt. A spokesperson for the Trump Organization has described the allegations as “baseless.”

Biggest Legal Blows

Wednesday’s lawsuit represents one of Trump’s most significant legal blows since he stepped down from office in January 2021. This decision follows a long and contentious legal battle waged by the New York Attorney General. As part of James’s investigation, his office has spent more than three years examining whether Trump Organization properties were valued inaccurately or misleadingly on annual financial statements given to potential business partners, financial institutions, and tax authorities.

In a statement, the attorney general’s office said that Trump intended to burnish his reputation and increase the value of his properties to gain an advantage. The company also said that it had understated the value of assets at other times to avoid paying taxes on them. Additionally, James has accused the former president, his company, and some family members of engaging in delay tactics to avoid being forced to testify under subpoenas.

Trump invoked his constitutional right against self-incrimination more than 400 times during a lengthy, closed-door deposition at the attorney general’s office on 10th August. Testimony before a federal judge in 2020 provided more than 500 instances of Eric Trump invoking his right against self-incrimination. Donald Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump agreed to take depositions only after court orders required them to do so.

As of Wednesday, a lawyer for Trump rejected the lawsuit filed by the state of New York as neither focusing on the facts nor the law but instead serving only to advance the political agenda of the Attorney General. “The Attorney General’s Office has exceeded its authority by investigating transactions in which there is no evidence of wrongdoing,” Alina Habba stated.

Trump Slammed the Lawsuit

Trump also called James “a racist” and “a fraud” in a post on his social media network; however, he did not directly address these allegations. In response, the attorney general defended the Twitter filing, stating, “There is not a dual system of law in America: former presidents must be held to the same standards as everyday citizens.”

As part of the US Department of Justice investigation into Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified materials, documents were seized from his Florida estate this month while Trump is expected to seek re-election in 2024. In addition, the state of Georgia has initiated a criminal investigation into the former president’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results that he lost to Joe Biden, and there is an investigation underway by a Congressional committee into his role in the riot at the United States Capitol on 6th January 2021.

As part of his lawsuit, James seeks to permanently ban Trump and his three children from serving as officers or directors in any New York corporation. In addition, the Trump Organization will be prohibited from engaging in any commercial real estate transactions in New York for five years. Disgorgement of all financial benefits obtained fraudulently has been awarded – estimated to total $250 million.

As part of another criminal investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, the Trump Organization has been charged with tax fraud and is preparing to go to trial on 24th October. Earlier this year, the company’s ex-chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg pleaded guilty and will testify against the company in James’ suit.

Read Also: Capitol Riot Panel Accused Trump of Attempted Coup

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It has been reported that Russian-backed officials in four Russian-controlled regions in eastern and southern Ukraine intend to hold referendums on joining the Russian Federation, which could lead to an escalation of the conflict. Voting will commence on September 23 and end on September 27.

Moscow plans to hold an urgent referendum in areas of Ukraine that are now under Russian control. The West has condemned this move. Several Russian-backed officials have called for a vote in 4 Ukrainian regions on whether to become part of the Russian Federation.#Referendum pic.twitter.com/C3gnZGff9o

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 21, 2022

It has been stated that the United States, Germany, and France will not recognize the results of such a “sham” vote. The NATO military alliance believed the war would escalate in response to the plans. A report by the Reuters news agency indicates that the quartet represents about fifteen percent of Ukrainian territory, the equivalent of the area of Hungary.

Western nations immediately rejected the idea of conducting legitimate and fair elections during a war. Russian plans for “sham” votes have been blasted by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, who has referred to them as a “parody” of democracy. “Macron told reporters in New York, where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly, that if the Donbas referendum idea weren’t so tragic, it would be funny.”

Ukraine Sacked the Russian Plan

Ukraine has dismissed Russia’s plan as a stunt intended to regain the initiative following crushing battlefield losses. Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, tweeted that “sham referendums” will result in no change. As an aggressor, Russia has occupied parts of Ukrainian soil since the beginning of the conflict. Regardless of what Russia may say, Ukraine has every right to liberate its territories.”

As reported by Russian officials and news outlets, votes will be held in the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk republics of the Donbas region, which were recognized as independent by President Vladimir Putin shortly before he deployed troops into Ukraine in February.

During Moscow’s early offensive in Ukraine, the Russian army captured the Kherson region in the south, which will be fought over on the same day. There will also be a vote in Zaporizhia, which is partially under Russian control. However, only about sixty percent of Donetsk is under Russian control, and Russia does not fully control any of the four regions.

Russia’s Unequivocal Ultimatum to Ukraine

In response to a question regarding the referendums, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov responded, “From the beginning of this operation, we stated that the people of the respective territories would decide their fate, and I think that the whole situation confirms their desire to manage their own destiny.” As Moscow can claim it is defending its territory against Ukrainian forces under the integration of these regions into Russia, the conflict in Ukraine would escalate significantly.

According to Tatiana Stanovaya, founder of the political analysis firm R.Politik, all these talks about immediate referendums represent Russia’s unequivocal ultimatum to Ukraine and the West. Ukraine’s Western allies gathered at the United Nations for the organization’s annual meeting and condemned a recent Russian plan.

Read Also: After a Missile Attack, Ukraine Warns of Nuclear Terrorism

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To resolve the deadlock over their 2015 nuclear deal, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi met with French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders. On Tuesday, Raisi sat down with EU President Charles Michel, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, top nuclear negotiator Ali Bagheri Kani, Josep Borrell, the bloc’s foreign policy chief, and Enrique Mora, the deputy. He coordinates the atomic negotiations that started in April 2021.

It is the first time Raisi has met a major Western leader since he was elected last year. French President Emmanuel Macron said he hoped to be able to “discuss all topics” during his face-to-face meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi.#nucleartalks #IranianPresident pic.twitter.com/UX3yY6RAT5

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 21, 2022

There followed separate talks between Bagheri and Mora, which are thought to be primarily focused on efforts to restore the 2015 nuclear Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which was unilaterally abandoned by the United States then-president Donald Trump in 2018. However, for any agreement to be reached, Raisi expressed a significant demand to his French counterpart, namely an investigation by the IAEA into several Iranian nuclear facilities involving unexplained atomic particles.

During his talk with Macron, Raisi emphasized that Iran’s cases must be closed, and the agency’s approach to technical issues must be independent of outside pressures. In addition, the Iranian leader stated, “Europe must demonstrate in practice that its policies are independent of those of the United States and do not reflect the U.S. wishes and policies.” Following Iran’s latest response to a European draft text earlier this month, Macron reportedly offered proposals to advance the dialog.

June Resolution to Denounce Iran

According to Raisi’s website, “Macron said that Iran and the agency can resolve previous cases and they will not exert political pressure on the agency.” However, while talking to Michel, Raisi asked, “If safeguards issues are unresolved, what assurance is there that the three European nations won’t again pursue a resolution against Iran the day after a deal?” The E3 countries, namely the United Kingdom, Germany and France, and the United States, imposed a censuring resolution on Iran in June that led to the removal of 28 nuclear agency cameras at the country’s sites.

Last week, 56 countries, including two-thirds of the board, read out a statement condemning Iran’s lack of cooperation with the IAEA. Earlier on Tuesday, France’s foreign minister, Catherine Colonna, urged Iran to accept the latest offer on the table to restore a landmark agreement, warning that the window of opportunity is closing rapidly.

Moreover, Borrell expressed little hope of any progress at the United Nations General Assembly, backing speculation that no real development will take place before next month’s midterm elections in the United States. As of this month, Israel remains the most vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, with Mossad chief David Barnea stating that even an expanded JCPOA will not allow Israeli operations in Iran to be unhindered.

Read Also: Yair Lapid Urged West to Call of Iran Nuclear Deal

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According to officials from both countries, a United States aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan, will visit South Korea this week for joint drills for the first time in more than four years. The allies hope to deter North Korea by deploying nuclear-capable “strategic assets” from the United States. In a statement, the South Korean Navy said that the aircraft carrier would land at a naval base in the southern port city of Busan on Friday.

US aircraft carrier will visit South Korea for the first time since 2018 to conduct joint military exercises amid rising concerns regarding North Korea’s nuclear program. On Monday, the South Korean navy announced that the USS Ronald Reagan would arrive on Friday in Busan. pic.twitter.com/XfRx0yd0mF

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 20, 2022

Its arrival follows North Korea’s recent passage of a law allowing the use of nuclear weapons as a preemptive measure in certain instances, demonstrating its increasingly aggressive nuclear strategy. In addition, early this year, the North tested several nuclear-capable ballistic missiles that could reach South Korea and the United States mainland.

Some experts believe North Korea’s moves indicate that it is not interested in resuming denuclearization negotiations until the United States and others acknowledge the country as a nuclear power. According to them, the North Korean government needs such recognition to engage in arms control negotiations with its adversaries and acquire sanctions relief and concessions without giving up its nuclear weapons.

An Overwhelming Response Would Follow any Nuclear Attack from North Korea

Following a meeting last week in Washington, senior U.S. and South Korean officials issued a statement saying, “Any nuclear attack by North Korea will be met with overwhelming and decisive retaliation.” U.S. military officials reiterated ‘their commitment to providing extended deterrence against South Korea’ through the full range of their capabilities, including nuclear weapons.

North Korean nuclear threats have prompted South Korea to build and acquire a variety of high-tech missiles, stealth jets, and other conventional weapons. Even though it possesses no nuclear weapons, it is under the protection of a “nuclear umbrella” of the United States, which will ensure that in case of an attack on its ally, the United States will respond devastatingly. The U.S. deployed around 28500 troops in South Korea to provide its support in case of any attack.

Earlier this month, the North Korean government approved a law allowing the country to carry out a nuclear strike as a preventive measure and declaring its nuclear status irreversible. This year, an unprecedented number of weapons tests have been conducted by the country, including the launch of the country’s first intercontinental ballistic missile in five years.

In addition to the strong and unwavering commitment of the United States to extend deterrence for the Republic of Korea/South Korea (ROK), the United States reiterated its commitment to utilizing its full range of military capabilities, including nuclear, missile defense, conventional, and other advanced non-nuclear capabilities.

North Korea Previously Committed to Denuclearize Completely

During his tenure as president of the United States, Donald Trump held direct discussions with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but diplomacy between the two nations has been stalled. The nations issued a joint statement following their first meeting in 2018 in which North Korea expressed its commitment to “work toward the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.”

Even after the pledge was made, no other steps were taken to end the country’s nuclear weapons program. An international ban on nuclear testing was violated by North Korea in 2006 when it carried out its first nuclear weapons test. Several resolutions have since been adopted by the UN Security Council, imposing sanctions on the country due to its nuclear program. Additionally, Pyongyang has viewed previous U.S. military deployments and joint drills as rehearsals for war and evidence that Washington and Seoul are following hostile policies.

Read Also: The US, South Korea Started Largest Military Exercises

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A crater was blown by a Russian missile close to a nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine on Monday, which caused damage to nearby industrial equipment without affecting the reactors. As a result, Ukrainian authorities have condemned this act as terrorism involving nuclear weapons. In the city of Yuzhnoukrainsk in Mykolaiv province, the missile struck within three hundred meters of the South Ukraine Nuclear Power Plant’s reactors, leaving a two-meter deep and four-meter-wide hole.

The Ukrainian nuclear energy operator said a Russian missile struck near a nuclear power plant in the country’s southern region. Nuclear power station Pivdennoukrainsk was not damaged by the missile that landed 300 meters away from it, according to Energoatom.#RussianStrike pic.twitter.com/GnmwgQIXRx

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 20, 2022

The workers reported no injuries, and the reactors were operating normally. However, the proximity of the strike renewed concerns that a radiation disaster could result from Russia’s nearly 7-month long war in Ukraine. It is the second largest nuclear power plant in Ukraine after the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear facility, which has repeatedly come under missile attacks. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to escalate his aggression against Ukrainian infrastructure following recent battlefield setbacks.

As a result of the Russian strikes on Ukrainian electricity generation and transmission equipment throughout the war, blackouts have occurred, and nuclear power plant safety systems have been endangered. The South Ukraine plant is part of a large industrial complex along the Southern Bug River, about three kilometers south-southwest of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. In addition, Ukrainian authorities reported that an attack on a hydroelectric plant on the edge of Kyiv caused a temporary shutdown of the plant, and over a hundred of its windows were shattered in the attack.

Attack Suffered Several Power Lines to Knock Out

The U.N.’s International Atomic Energy Agency said three power lines were knocked offline but later reconnected. According to the IAEA of the U.N., several power lines were knocked out of service but later reconnected. In a black-and-white video released by Ukraine’s Defense Ministry, two giant fireballs erupted nineteen minutes after midnight, followed by incandescent spark showers. Energoatom and the Ministry of Defense called the strike “nuclear terrorism.”

There was no immediate comment from the Russian Defense Ministry. Zaporizhzhia, the largest nuclear plant in Europe, has been occupied by Russian forces since shortly after the invasion. Several transmission lines have been damaged by shelling, resulting in the shutdown of the plant’s six reactors. There has been a blame game between Russia and Ukraine regarding the strikes.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, which has monitors stationed at the Zaporizhzhia plant, reported that the main transmission line was reconnected on Friday, allowing the reactors to be cooled.

Putin Warned to Ramp-up Strikes

According to the city mayor of Enerhodar, where the Zaporizhzhia plant is located, more Russian shelling occurred in the city’s industrial area on Monday. The Russian president warned on Friday of a possible ramp-up of strikes, claiming his forces had up to this point acted with restraint but warned that “if the situation continues to develop this way, their response will become more serious.”

In recent weeks, the Russian military has conducted several significant operations,” he explained. It would be appropriate to consider those attacks as warning strikes. It was reported Monday that at least eight civilians had been killed and 22 have been injured in the latest Russian shelling. Several medical workers were killed by Russian shells while trying to evacuate patients from Kharkiv’s northeastern region, which is now mainly in Ukrainian hands. The shelling also injured two patients.

Patricia Lewis, the international security research director at the Chatham House think-tank in London, has stated that the Russian military is attempting to take Ukrainian nuclear plants offline before winter by attacking the Zaporizhzhia plant and the South Ukraine plant. The Associated Press quoted Lewis saying, “Targeting a nuclear station is very dangerous and illegal.” He added, “The generals will be able to determine the intention, but there is no doubt that a pattern has emerged.”

It is necessary to supply power to pumps that circulate cooling water to the reactors to prevent overheating and – in the worst-case scenario – the meltdown of nuclear fuel, which will release a high level of radiation. A power plant in the north of Ukraine and a dam in the south have been targeted as part of recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.

Mass Graves

On Monday, a Russian official rejected Ukraine’s allegations that Russian troops committed war crimes in Kharkiv. In response to a reporter’s question, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the story was a lie and that he would defend the truth. Last week, Ukrainian officials said at least 440 bodies were found in woodlands near Izium. The discovery led Ukraine to conclude that Russian forces committed war crimes.

Investigators found new evidence on Saturday that some soldiers buried in Izium have been tortured. Izium is one of more than 20 towns that Ukraine has retaken from Russia in the Kharkiv region. One site contained seventeen bodies, some of which were tortured.

Read Also: IAEA Urges Russian Forces to Flee from Ukraine Nuclear Plant

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It is expected that United States President Joe Biden will be among the long list of world leaders attending Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral in Westminster Abbey on Monday, where a large amount of pageantry will be on display to pay tribute to an era-spanning monarch who ruled for seven decades. Over 2,000 people, including world leaders, dignitaries, politicians, celebrities, and European royals, are expected to attend the event.

There will be a long list of world leaders present at Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral in Westminster Abbey on Monday, where royal pageantry will be on display in remembrance of a monarch whose reign spanned seven decades. President Biden will also pay tribute to the late queen pic.twitter.com/HIhsOX5cBY

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 19, 2022

At Westminster Abbey, starting at 11 a.m., the Rev. David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, will conduct the service. The Prime Minister of the U.K., Liz Truss, and Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, will read lessons. During the service, Archbishop Justin Welby will deliver a sermon. After the service, a two-minute silence will be observed following the Last Post sound. At noon, the Queen’s Piper will conclude the state funeral by playing a Lament and Reveille, the National Anthem.

Which countries will not attend the funeral?

Over the weekend, invitations were sent to the heads of state of countries with which the United Kingdom maintains diplomatic relations. Leaders from across the Commonwealth and around the globe are expected to attend the state funeral. However, Syrian, Russian, Belarussian, Myanmar, Afghan, and Venezuelan representatives will not be present. The participation of the head of state and a guest is standard practice for most nations with an invitation.

As soon as the state funeral concludes on Monday, the coffin will be transported to Wellington Arch, where it will make its final journey out of London to Windsor. Her coffin will be lowered into the Royal Vault beneath St. George’s Chapel, within the grounds of Windsor Castle, at the Queen’s journey end. It follows nearly two weeks of preparations under the codename “Operation London Bridge,” culminating in Monday’s official ceremony.

Jill Biden will also Attend Funeral Ceremony with President Biden

There have been plans for the Queen’s funeral for many years, which gives American advisers a greater understanding of what will occur over the coming days as security arrangements are made. White House officials said they only received an invitation for President Biden and first lady Jill Biden, thus slimming the American footprint. The British capital is being kept at a high level of security in the British capital as dozens of world leaders gathered over the weekend and Monday to remember the Queen, who met thirteen sitting US presidents during her reign.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan stated in an interview with Sky News last week that it is comparable to the London Marathon, the carnival, previous royal weddings, and the Olympics all coming together in one event.

President Biden is expected to return to Washington on Monday afternoon following the funeral. Aside from paying respects to Queen Elizabeth II while she was lying in state, President and first lady Biden signed condolence books with other leaders and attended a reception with King Charles III during their brief visit to London.

It has been reported that the British administration is no longer expecting Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to attend. Western leaders were hesitant to invite the individual they believe ordered the assassination of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. As far as his involvement in the murder is concerned, he has denied involvement.

Read Also: Queen Elizabeth proposes Farewell to late Prince Philip

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United States President Biden reiterated U.S. support for Taiwan’s democracy by declaring that U.S. forces will defend Taiwan if China attempts to invade the self-governed island. The president replied, “Yes,” when CBS News’s 60 Minutes asked if “U.S. forces, American men and women, would defend Taiwan from a Chinese invasion.”

There will be a long list of world leaders present at Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral in Westminster Abbey on Monday, where royal pageantry will be on display in remembrance of a monarch whose reign spanned seven decades. President Biden will also pay tribute to the late queen pic.twitter.com/HIhsOX5cBY

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 19, 2022

China claims Taiwan as its own territory, which has a population of 23 million and is a self-governing democracy. They have stated that one day they may use force to seize control of the island. The U.S. president has repeatedly reiterated over the past six months that U.S. military forces will not engage Russian troops on Ukrainian soil. During the interview, Pelley asked Biden whether the situation would change in the event of an attack on Taiwan.

In response to the interview, the White House reaffirmed that U.S. policy remains unchanged. Washington has always had a policy of “strategic ambiguity” – neither commits to defending Taiwan nor rules it out completely. Beijing officially claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Taiwan is a self-governing island located off the east coast of China. It has long been evident that Washington is treading a delicate diplomatic line concerning this issue.

One China Policy

In one respect, it adheres to the One China policy, a cornerstone of its relations with the Chinese government. Furthermore, Taiwan belongs to China under the policy, and the position is unchallenged. Therefore, the U.S. does not recognize the island as a separate state and has no diplomatic relations with it. As a result of the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States maintains close ties with Taiwan and sells arms to the island. The Act stipulates that the U.S. must provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself. On Sunday, Biden reiterated this point in the Sunday interview.

He explained that Taiwan has a One-China policy and makes its own decisions about independence. We are not enforcing an independent Taiwan – that is up to them,” he explained. It is worth noting that Biden had made similar comments in May when he had pledged to intervene militarily on Taiwan’s behalf in the event of an attack.

The White House said there was no departure from America’s long-standing policy. After that statement, the White House promptly followed up by stating that there was no departure from the previous policy of the United States. Finally, the White House apparently issued a statement contradicting Biden’s last claim: “The President has made this point before, including in Tokyo earlier this year. He also made it clear then that their Taiwan policy has not changed.

Weaponry Deal Between the United States and Taiwan

It is the third time in a year that Biden has gone beyond the official line and demonstrated a willingness to take military action – once in October 2021 and once in May 2022. A deal between the U.S. and Taiwan earlier this month resulted in anger from China, which prompted the sale of weaponry and missile defense systems worth $1.1 billion. In addition, a controversial visit by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the island in August, a trip the president had deemed unwise, escalated tensions between the U.S. and China.

Some observers perceived that Biden’s comments signal the end of strategic ambiguity toward Taiwan. However, White House officials have repeatedly maintained that U.S. policy towards Taiwan remains the same. Nevertheless, a deputy director at the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security of the Atlantic Council, Matthew Kroenig, said Biden’s stance was “clear as crystal.”

He said, “As long as he is president, U.S. policy will be to defend Taiwan.” Kroenig told Al Jazeera that this policy strengthens the United States military’s deterrence of China and helps guide strategic planning.” He added that he believes that America is capable of waging that war. In anticipation of World War II, Hitler and imperial Japan bet America lacked the wherewithal to fight. How did they fare? Keeping the Indo-Pacific region peaceful and stable, as well as maintaining free and open access, is of crucial strategic importance to Washington.”

Taiwan Suffers a Major Earthquake

On the other hand, an earthquake of magnitude 6.9 struck Taiwan’s southeastern coast on Sunday, causing at least one building to collapse and two train cars to derail. Approximately 50 kilometers north of Taitung, the quake occurred at 2:44 pm local time at a depth of ten kilometers, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

It has been reported that more than 600 people are trapped in the scenic Chike and Liushishi mountain areas due to blocked roads. There have been no injuries, and rescuers are working tirelessly to reopen the roads. In addition, a two-story residential building collapsed near the epicenter in the Yuli district, and rescue efforts are underway to reach two people trapped inside the building.

According to an online video posted by Taiwan’s semi-official Central News Agency, panicked residents rushed to the collapsed building, producing a thick dust cloud as it caved in on itself. It is believed that the 70-year-old owner of the building and his wife were rescued, and workers are still attempting to reach a 39-year-old woman and her five-year-old daughter.

Read Also: The US to Slap China with Sanctions to Deter Taiwan Action

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During a closed-door meeting held on Thursday in Vienna as part of the United Nations nuclear watchdog’s board of governors, diplomats said that the board had adopted a resolution to demand Russia withdraw its occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine. As part of its resolution, the International Atomic Energy Agency board of directors ordered Russian forces to instantly cease all aggressive actions against and at the nuclear power plant Zaporizhzhia and any other nuclear facility in Ukraine.”

A resolution has been passed by the 35-nation Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency urging Russia to end its occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine. #IAEA #Ukraine #Russia #NuclearPlant #ZaporizhzhiaPlant pic.twitter.com/Yw2gvpeKuE

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 17, 2022

There were 26 votes in favor, two against, and seven abstentions by the 35-member board, diplomats reported, adding that Russia and China opposed the resolution. Furthermore, the resolution states that the military occupation of the plant significantly increases the risk of nuclear accidents, endangering the population of Ukraine, its neighbors, and the international community as a whole.

According to the resolution, the Russian military and Rosatom, the national nuclear corporation of Russia, are obliged to cease all activities at the nuclear plant and return control to the Ukrainian authorities. In a statement, the Russian mission at the International Atomic Energy Agency also pointed out that the resolution failed to mention the systematic shelling of the plant as ‘the Achilles’ heel of this resolution. There is a simple explanation for this shelling: Ukraine conducts it, which is supported and shielded by Western countries in every way possible.

IAEA Delegation Visited the Nuclear Plant

Several attacks have been made against the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant recently, causing grave concerns at the International Atomic Energy Agency. It has been claimed that Moscow and Kyiv are responsible for the attacks. However, in a visit to the plant earlier this month, a delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that the site had been damaged by shelling from the north.

There was a complete shutdown of the power plant over the weekend, and the authorities restored power lines to ensure the cooling of nuclear fuel rods and waste, which prevents a meltdown if the power plant is not shut down for long.

It is the second resolution passed by the International Atomic Energy Agency board regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Their contents are very similar, although the first was passed in March before Russian forces took over Zaporizhzhia, Europe’s largest nuclear power plant. In addition, a Canadian and Polish resolution was proposed on behalf of Ukraine, which is not a member of the board, and it meets more than once a year and makes policy decisions for the IAEA.

Read Also: IAEA Confirms Presence at Ukraine’s Nuclear Facility

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The top legislator of China is scheduled to meet South Korean leaders, including newly elected President Yoon Suk Yeol, in Seoul on Friday. Yoon’s efforts to cement an alliance with Washington have raised concerns that this may hinder Seoul’s relations with Beijing. He is the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit South Korea since his predecessor visited here in 2015. Li Zhanshu is the third in the Chinese Communist Party hierarchy and one of Xi Jinping’s closest confidants.

China’s top legislator is set to meet with South Korea’s Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday amid concerns that Yoon’s push for a military alliance with Washington could undermine Beijing’s relations. Li Zhanshu has been one of China’s most senior officials to visit South Korea. pic.twitter.com/9sNxxDM90e

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 16, 2022

As part of Beijing’s efforts to strengthen relations with neighboring countries, Li’s trip is seen as a precursor to the Communist Party congress that is expected to award Xi a third five-year term. Li’s visit is also essential for Yoon’s government since it wants to assure Beijing that its efforts to strengthen the United States alliance and participate in US-led regional initiatives will not adversely affect China.

China’s National People’s Congress standing committee chairman Li leads sixty-six members of the Chinese delegation to South Korea, including three cabinet-level officials. On the afternoon of Friday, he is scheduled to meet Yoon after holding separate discussions with National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin Pyo and other parliamentary leaders of South Korea on how to enhance the level of collaboration between the two countries’ legislatures.

XI Meeting with Putin

China has supported Russia in its war on Ukraine despite claims of neutrality, as Li expressed during a visit to Russia earlier this month. A regional gathering in Uzbekistan was held on Thursday, during which Xi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the meeting, the Russian President thanked Xi for his “balanced” approach to the Ukrainian crisis and denounced Washington’s “ugly” policies.

The meeting between Li and Yoon attracted lots of attention since Yoon had skipped a face-to-face meeting with Nancy Pelosi last month after her trip to Taiwan. Yoon, while on vacation, spoke with Pelosi over the phone, but he faced domestic criticism for deliberately avoiding her to avoid provocations with the Chinese government. During Pelosi’s Asian trip, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan, Yoon was the only head of state who did not meet the speaker face-to-face.

During Li’s visit, Kim Heung-kyu, director of the U.S.-China Policy Institute at Ajou University in South Korea, noted that Li’s visit differed from Pelosi’s because she had been on a contentious tour to Taiwan. However, he stated that Beijing would likely see it as a symbolic gesture that Li met a South Korean president whom Pelosi did not meet.

During Li’s visit, key topics are expected to be discussed, among others, Seoul’s plans to enhance the stability of a U.S. missile defense system in South Korea, which China views as a security threat, the role China can play in curbing North Korean nuclear threats, as well as how to ensure stable supply chains. Prof. Kim Han-Kwon at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy said the two countries would likely reaffirm their respective positions on these topics. Li is expected to convey the Chinese view of them clearly and concisely.

China Suspended Group Tours to South Korea

Chinese officials are concerned that Yoon’s move toward Washington could have the same economic repercussions as South Korea’s 2017 placement of the THAAD system on its soil. The Chinese government has suspended tours to South Korea and conducted an unofficial boycott of the country’s products as it claims its radar system can spy on its territory. However, China is likely more careful this time because launching such economic retaliatory measures won’t achieve China’s goals, will push South Korea nearer to the United States, and could worsen anti-Chinese sentiments.

In the THAAD dispute, China affected public opinion in South Korea and caused economic losses to the country. “However, they ultimately failed to stop the THAAD system from being deployed, and anti-China sentiments began to grow in South Korea. There was also a public reevaluation of Korean-US military cooperation and cooperation between South Korea, Japan, and the United States.”

Protests in southern South Korea have undermined the regular operation of the THAAD base, preventing materials and equipment from entering. Earlier this week, China claimed that South Korea had agreed to limit the operation of the base, a claim denied by Yoon’s government. In addition to semiconductors, automobiles, and smartphones, South Korea is one of the world’s largest suppliers of electronic products. As a result, experts say it would make a good partner for the United States and China.

“South Korea has a significant strategic role for both the United States and China,” explained Kim, the institute’s director. Likely, China will further emphasize a message of amity and cooperation rather than pressure, conflict, or confrontation with South Korea unless the Yoon Suk Yeol government openly pursues an anti-China policy.

Read Also: Denuclearization will Benefit North Korea Economically – South Korea

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In the Southern District of Florida, where the Justice Department is currently investigating classified records at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, President Joe Biden nominated a Miami litigator and experienced government lawyer to serve as United States attorney for the Southern District of Florida. The appointment of Markenzy Lapointe replaces Juan Antonio “Tony” Gonzalez, a former Southern Florida prosecutor involved with the investigation of classified records and the debate as to whether a judge should appoint a special master to inspect the seized classified documents as part of the search for classified information.

Biden has nominated an experienced Miami litigator and a longtime government lawyer as US attorney for the district of Florida. This office is investigating classified records kept at former Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, which is under investigation by the Justice Department.#Joe pic.twitter.com/CNTGvZ3tVI

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 16, 2022

It was not clear why the Biden administration chose to announce the nomination at this time since the government’s case is currently proceeding through the legal system. Gonzalez was appointed to the position by Attorney General Merrick Garland, who had previously served as a senior prosecutor in the office. Before this, his nomination for the position was not formally submitted.

Since 1998, Gonzalez has served as a federal prosecutor in southern Florida, holding positions as acting U.S. attorney and first assistant attorney. Assuming the role following the nomination of Ariana Fajardo Orshan, he succeeded Trump. Due to the ongoing investigation, Lapointe will likely remain in the spotlight for many months. In his current position, he is associated with Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman; before that, he served with Boies Schiller & Flexner. During 2002 and 2006, he served as an assistant United States attorney in Florida’s Southern District.

Senate Must Confirm the U.S. Attorney Picks

A federal investigation into Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz is being handled by U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg, whom Biden formally nominated. Garland appointed Handberg to the role in 2021, and he has served in the role since then. Senate confirmation is required for U.S. attorney nominees, so home-state senators usually have a significant influence. Republican Senator Marco Rubio praised Biden’s picks and led a bipartisan commission recommending both Florida candidates.

“They have distinguished themselves in their communities and nation, and I am confident that both will uphold the Constitution and respect the rule of law without fear or favor,” he noted. In addition, President Biden nominated McLain Schneider to the District of North Dakota. Between 2008 and 2016, he was a North Dakota State Senate member and a private practice attorney. The White House stated that these lawyers were chosen based on their commitment to the law’s implementation, experience, professionalism, credentials, and commitment to pursuing equal justice for all.

A Judge grants Trump’s Special Master Bid

On Monday, a federal judge granted former President Donald Trump’s request for a special master to review FBI-seized documents from his Florida home. In addition, he temporarily halted the DOJ’s use of classified records to conduct investigations. As a result of the decision of United States District Judge Aileen Cannon, the documents seized during the search on August 8 will be reviewed by an outside legal expert. This expert will determine whether there are items that might be protected by the attorney-client privilege or executive privilege and remove them from the investigation. Ultimately, some of those records may be returned to Trump, but the judge has not decided on that issue.

It came despite the strongly expressed objections of the Justice Department, which argued that a special master was not necessary as officials had already reviewed potentially privileged documents. In a statement on Monday, the department indicated that it was reviewing the decision, but it would not disclose if or when it might appeal it. Anthony Coley, a spokesman for the Justice Department, stated on Monday that the United States would evaluate the opinion and take appropriate next steps in the ongoing litigation. Trump’s lawyer did not respond to a message seeking comment.

During an investigation into the retention of national defense information at Mar-a-Lago and attempts to obstruct the investigation, FBI agents seized approximately 11,000 documents and 1,800 other items in August. The classification markings were found on about 100 of the documents. During the investigation, Trump’s team argued that the appointment of a special master, usually an outside lawyer or former judge, was necessary to ensure that any information or documents personal to Trump were filtered out before being returned to him.

Read Also: DOJ Subpoena Storm Widens Trump’s Likely Legal Woes

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In a flare-up of conflict early Thursday, 155 soldiers from both Armenia and Azerbaijan were killed. However, according to an Armenian official, Armenia and Azerbaijan negotiated a cease-fire to end the violence. A televised announcement from Armenia’s Security Council secretary Armen Grigoryan informed the public that the truth had come into effect hours earlier, at 08:00 pm on Wednesday. Russia brokered a previous cease-fire on Tuesday, but it quickly collapsed.

In a recent resurgence of fighting, Armenia and Azerbaijan have reached a ceasefire, resulting in 155 soldiers from both sides being killed. Armenia’s Security Council secretary, Armen Grigoryan, announced that the truce had taken effect an hour earlier, at 8:00 PM local time. pic.twitter.com/fxjwk7adwA

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 15, 2022

The Armenian Defence Ministry reported earlier that shelling had ceased but did not mention the cease-fire agreement. The government of Azerbaijan did not comment immediately. A cease-fire was declared after two days of heavy fighting between the two longtime enemies, the longest spate of hostilities between them since almost two years ago. On Wednesday evening, thousands of Armenian protestors took to the streets, accusing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of betraying his country by appeasing Azerbaijan. They demanded his resignation.

Throughout the hostilities, Armenian authorities and Azerbaijani officials have exchanged blame, with Armenia accusing Baku of unprovoked aggression and Azerbaijani officials claiming their country was responding to Armenian shelling. Since the fighting began early Tuesday, Pashinyan reported that 105 soldiers had been killed, while Azerbaijan said fifty soldiers had been killed. According to authorities in Azerbaijan, up to a hundred Armenian soldiers’ bodies will be unilaterally turned over to Armenians.

Azerbaijan and Armenia Conflict Brief History

In 1994, a separatist war between the former Soviet countries ended with Azerbaijan regaining control over Nagorno-Karabakh, which is part of Azerbaijan but controlled by ethnic Armenian forces supported by Armenia. Azerbaijan could reclaim large swaths of Nagorno-Karabakh during a six-week military campaign in 2020. An end to the fighting was negotiated by Russia, which resulted in more than 6,700 deaths. Under the agreement, approximately 2,000 troops from Moscow will serve as peacekeepers in the region.

Since the fighting began, Azerbaijani forces have occupied 10 square kilometers of Armenian territory. As part of the friendship treaty between the countries, the Azerbaijan government has requested military aid from Russia and Collective Security Treaty Organization assistance. Pashinyan said that his allies were Russia and the Collective Security Treaty Organization, which states that aggression against one member is aggression against all.

During an address to his nation’s parliament, Pashinyan said that military intervention wasn’t the only possibility, but there were also political and diplomatic options. His remarks indicate that Armenia is prepared to recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan under a future peace treaty if it relinquishes control of the lands seized by Azerbaijani forces in Armenia.

It is not acceptable to sign a document for which many people will criticize it, denounce it, and call us traitors, and they may even consider removing us from office. Still, we would be grateful if it resulted in lasting peace and security for Armenia”, Pashinyan said. Some in the opposition interpreted Pashinyan’s remarks as indicating he was willing to concede to Azerbaijan’s demands and recognize Azerbaijan’s sovereignty over Nagorno-Karabakh. The government’s headquarters was rapidly surrounded by thousands of angry protesters, accusing Pashinyan of treason and calling for his resignation.

Outbreak of Fighting

Pashinyan denounced reports, describing the protests in Yerevan as attempts to destroy the state, alleging that he had signed a pact accepting Azerbaijani demands. Grigoryan, the secretary of the Security Council, also condemned the protests, describing them as attempts to destroy the state. As a result of the uproar, Arayik Harutyunyan, the leader of Nagorno-Karabakh, has stated that the region will not agree to become an integral part of the Azerbaijani system and will continue to pursue independence.

It has become increasingly difficult for Moscow to maintain friendly relations with Armenia and Turkey amidst rising tensions in Yerevan. While maintaining close economic ties with Armenia, which hosts a Russian military base, it also maintains a close relationship with oil-rich Azerbaijan. As a result, some analysts have interpreted the outbreak of fighting as Azerbaijan’s attempt to force Armenian authorities to implement some provisions of the 2020 peace deal more quickly, including opening transport corridors through its territory.

According to Sergei Markedonov, a Russian expert on the South Caucasus region, “Azerbaijan’s military potential is greater than Armenia’s, and so the latter tries to impose conditions on Armenia and to exert pressure using force.” During this period of flare-up, Markedonov pointed out that Russia was forced to retreat from northeastern Ukrainian areas following a counteroffensive by the Ukrainian army. As a result of Armenia’s request for support, Russia has found itself in a precarious position.

Putin to Meet Aliyev in Samarkand

On Tuesday evening, Russian Leader Vladimir Putin and leaders of other members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization discussed the situation over the phone, urging an immediate cease-fire. Top officials from the security alliance will be sent to the area as part of the mission. Russia and China head the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, an organization dominated by Russia and China, and Putin and Aliyev will meet in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on Friday.

Read Also: Russia offers to broker peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan

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Sources familiar with the discussions stated that the United States is considering measures to deter China from invading Taiwan, while the European Union is also being pressured diplomatically by Taipei. They added that Washington’s deliberations and Taipei’s separate lobbying of European Union envoys were at an initial stage – a response to concerns of a Chinese invasion that have matured as military tensions in the Taiwan Strait have increased.

United States officials have been discussing options for a sanctions package against China to deter China from invading Taiwan, and the European Union has been under diplomatic pressure from Taiwan to do the same to deter the Chinese from invading the island.#sanctionspackage pic.twitter.com/R6xnQ4F05P

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 14, 2022

To restrict trade and investment with China in sensitive technologies such as computer chips and telecom equipment, sanctions beyond those already taken in the West are proposed in both cases. Despite the lack of details about what is being discussed, the idea of sanctions on the world’s second-largest economy and one of the largest links in the global supply chain raises some concerns.

Beijing Launched Missiles over Taiwan

The imposition of sanctions on China would be far more complicated than sanctions on Russia because of the deep ties between the U.S. and its allies and the Chinese economic system, said Nazak Nikakhtar, a former senior United States Commerce Department official. China, on the other hand, claims Taiwan as its own territory. Following U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei last month, Beijing launched missiles over the island and warships across their unofficial sea border.

In his campaign for power, Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed to use force to regain control of democratically run Taiwan. A Communist Party congress is scheduled for next month, where he will be re-elected for a third five-year term. In response to China’s sovereignty claims, Taiwan’s government strongly rejects them. Washington is considering several options for a potential package of sanctions against China to deter Xi from attempting to invade Taiwan, a United States official and an official from a country working closely with Washington said.

As a result of the Chinese reaction to Pelosi’s visit, U.S. discussions over sanctions took on new urgency following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February. A similar threat of unspecified sanctions, backed by NATO allies, was made by the U.S. to Russia in January, but it failed to dissuade the Russian leader from invading Ukraine.

An official from a non-US country told the Times that the White House wants to get countries on the same page, including European and Asian coordination and avoiding provocations from Beijing. Some analysts have suggested that China’s military could be the target of specific sanctions under consideration, but Reuters could not get details on what specific sanctions might be proposed.

Chinese War Games Against Taiwan

“Sanctions conversations will likely focus on curbing China’s access to specific technologies needed for sustaining military operations against Taiwan,” said Craig Singleton of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Neither the White House nor the press office was available for comment. According to Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry, the U.S., Europe, and other like-minded partners had discussed China’s recent war games and the large challenges they pose to Taiwan and the region. However, they could not provide any further information.

Reuters cited six sources briefed on Taiwan-Europe discussions as saying Taiwan had already discussed sanctions after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but China’s recent military exercises have reinforced Taiwan’s position. In recent weeks, top Taiwanese officials have intensified their calls for sanctions preparations. In addition, the Chinese government has redoubled its efforts with Europe in response to a recent white paper that withdraws a promise not to send troops or administrators to Taiwan if Beijing takes control of it.

All 27 E.U. Member States Should Agree to Impose Sanctions

A source briefed on the discussions said Taiwan has not asked for anything specific, only for Europe to plan its response to China’s attack. Taiwan has asked Europe to warn China privately that it would suffer the consequences of an attack. One person familiar with the matter says E.U. officials have avoided tough sanctions against China on human rights issues because the country contributes more to the bloc’s economy than Russia.

All 27 E.U. member countries would have to agree to impose sanctions on China, which is sometimes difficult; imposing sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine was particularly tough due to Germany’s dependence on Russia’s gas. The European Union, apart from the Vatican, maintains formal diplomatic relations with Beijing but not with Taipei. Although Taiwanese and European officials have been in extensive private contact ever since China began its military exercises.

Source: Web: The US Approves Likely $1.1bn Arms Sale to Taiwan

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A latest United States intelligence report found that during the past eight years, Russia has secretly funneled at least $300 million to foreign political parties and candidates in more than twenty countries, intending to influence international politics. This summer, the Biden government commissioned a report that showed Russia planned to spend hundreds of millions of dollars more on its covert campaigns to undermine democratic systems and promote worldwide political forces aligned with Kremlin interests.

There has been a secret Russian effort to influence political events in more than 2 dozen nations over the past 8 years by funneling at least $300m to foreign political parties and candidates to shape political events beyond its borders, according to a new US intelligence report. pic.twitter.com/7gcKTvPuqO

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 14, 2022

In an interview with reporters Tuesday under the condition of anonymity, a senior U.S. official discussed intelligence findings with reporters, saying the administration had decided to declassify some of the review’s findings to counter Russian influence over political systems in Africa, Europe, and elsewhere. However, this revelation of Russian covert financing and Russian efforts to undermine democratic processes warns foreign parties and candidates that the U.S. can and will expose them if they accept Russian money secretly as part of their campaign financing.

According to an administration source familiar with the matter, such activities were identified in Albania, Montenegro, Madagascar, and possibly Ecuador. In addition, officials claimed that the Russian ambassador had given millions of dollars in cash to a presidential candidate in one Asian country, which they declined to name. Shell companies, think tanks, and Kremlin-linked forces have also used other Kremlin-linked sources to influence political events.

Russia Initiated a Political Campaign to Interfere in the 2016 U.S. Elections

In 2014, the U.S. administration observed an increase in Russian covert political funding. Russia’s activities in the U.S. were not considered in the review. In the wake of a bipartisan Senate investigation and assessments by both U.S. spy agencies, both concluded that Russia under President Vladimir Putin attempted to influence the 2016 presidential election in favor of then-candidate Donald Trump. According to the latest reports, the Kremlin was running a political influence campaign while the United States was bolstering Ukrainian military support in their war against Russia.

Since early this year, the White House has taken the unusual step of repeatedly releasing declassified intelligence related to Moscow’s intentions and actions related to Ukraine, part of an attempt to push back on Putin’s ambitions there and counteract what U.S. officials have described as Russian disinformation operations. Moreover, U.S. embassies in more than 100 countries were sent a State Department message Monday describing the alleged Russian activities and suggesting actions that Americans and their allies could take in response, including sanctions, travel bans, and expulsion of Russian spies involved in political financing.

According to a cable provided to reporters, Russia’s Federal Security Service and its officials oversee political financing in Russia. According to the report, Russian oligarchs, including Yevgeniy Prigozhin and Aleksandr Babakov, are linked to “financing schemes.” In 2018, U.S. officials charged Prigozhin with attempting to interfere in the 2016 U.S. elections after he made vast sums in catering contracts for the Russian government. He was known as “Putin’s chef” for his immense catering contracts with the Russian government. There are accusations that he is involved with the private military firm Wagner and that the FBI wanted him.

Moscow Also Used Crypto Currency to Shape Global Political Events

According to the cable, Russian embassies often used the accounts and resources of their embassies to use cryptocurrency, cash, and gifts as political sway in foreign countries. According to it, Russia may continue to rely on its covert influence tools in Asia, Central & South America, the Middle East, and Africa in the coming months, including secret political financing, to undermine international sanctions and maintain influence in these regions despite its ongoing Ukrainian conflict.

American diplomats are informing counterparts abroad of the activities, which American officials believe may extend well beyond the countries and previously identified sums. But, maybe it’s just the beginning,” said the senior official. That is why the U.S. shares these measures rather than sit on the sidelines.” In addition, the United States is asking partner nations to provide information regarding Russian financing to the Biden administration to understand better what Russia is doing.

However, despite the review not addressing Russian efforts to influence American politics, the senior official acknowledged that the issue remains a significant challenge that will require ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity of U.S. elections and political systems. This vulnerability also exists in the U.S., the official said.

Read Also: US Ambassador to Russia Announces Retirement

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As part of its criminal probe into the events surrounding the United States Capitol insurrection, the Department of Justice has issued subpoenas to over thirty former officials and campaign aides of former President Donald Trump. Additionally, the gambit revealed on Monday demonstrates that although Trump may be able to halt a probe into Mar-a-Lago’s retention of classified information, the legal consequences to him may be severe. Both investigations have not resulted in a criminal charge against the former president.

The Department of Justice is serious about its criminal investigation into the events surrounding the United States Capitol insurrection, as evidenced by the broad sweep of subpoenas it has issued against more than 30 former Trump officials and campaign aides.#DOJ pic.twitter.com/ZEjNGz3u2s

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 13, 2022

Subpoenas indicate that the DOJ’s investigation, which has been ongoing behind the scenes for months, is far more extensive than previously believed. Trump critics have been frustrated with Attorney General Merrick Garland because of the investigation. In addition, the investigation seems to intensify, with investigators appearing to narrow their focus based on other subpoenas, evidence, and testimonies from witnesses.

“In a classic investigation, this is how it is done, and so to speak, the chain is moved upward,” David Laufman, former head of the DOJ’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, told CNN’s Erin Burnett on Monday. It is now being expanded to include individuals closer and closer to the President, studying what he knew and when.

The former President has typically avoided legal scrutiny and scandals that would end conventional politicians’ careers. There are, however, multiple legal concerns related to his attempts to overthrow the 2020 election result, all of which stem from his belief that his position as president, and even in civilian life, gave him almost unlimited power without scrutiny.

A New Indication of the DOJ’s Interest in Post-election Intrigue

Over 30 new subpoenas have been issued for documents and some for testimony before a grand jury, raising suspicions that the Justice Department is probing a scheme to invalidate Biden’s wins in swing states in the 2020 Presidential Election. In addition, new information reported by CNN, some of which were first revealed by The New York Times, indicates that prosecutors are investigating Trump’s fundraising operation and how his “Stop the Steal” rally was organized on January 6, 2021.

The recent flurry of subpoenas came just before a 60-day quiet period during which the Justice Department tries to avoid appearing to influence elections through politically sensitive investigations. As well as deciding the Senate and the House of Representative’s fate, the midterm elections in November will also affect many state and local offices. During his campaign for the presidency in 2022, Trump used his false claims that he was illegally ejected from office in a fraudulent election as a campaign platform.

Brian Jack was also Subpoenaed

CNN reported that subpoenas were issued to two former Trump campaign staffers close to the campaign. Bill Stepien was the campaign’s former campaign manager, while Sean Dollman worked as its chief financial officer. One source familiar with the matter says Trump’s former deputy chief of staff and social media guru Dan Scavino was also subpoenaed. However, none of the three men responded to the request for comment. Finally, an unnamed source says President Trump’s former political director, Brian Jack, was subpoenaed. In addition, Jack refused to comment on CNN’s inquiries.

In the wake of a series of scripted sessions that painted a profoundly damning picture of Trump’s behavior following the last election, the House select committee investigating the January 6 insurrection is scheduled to meet Tuesday to discuss the next steps in its probe and likely new televised hearings. There will be a talk about whether Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence will be invited.

It is not anticipated that either man will testify. Still, some members believe they should be asked for their records, given the extraordinary circumstances of the former President’s efforts to undermine the peaceful transfer of power following a democratic election. In a related storyline, an investigation in Georgia is investigating alleged efforts to overturn Biden’s election in the crucial swing state by local officials.

Trump and Justice Department Trade Blows in Classified Documents Case

There has been another legal battle recently over Trump’s hoarding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate, which has overshadowed all these probes, resulting in a prolonged standoff with the Justice Department that resulted in last month’s FBI raid on the former president’s property. As part of the DOJ’s criminal investigation, Trump’s lawyers argue in a new filing that a judge should reject the DOJ’s request to continue reviewing classified material.

Read Also: The DOJ Wants to Regain Access to Secret Mar-a-Lago Documents

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As a result of the largest clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, nearly fifty Armenian soldiers were killed. Still, Moscow said it had reached a rapid ceasefire agreement with the historic rivals. During fierce fighting overnight on its borders, Armenia pleaded for help from world leaders, claiming Azerbaijani forces were encroaching on its territory.

50 Armenian soldiers have been killed in the worst clashes between Armenia & Azerbaijan. However, Russia says it has convinced the historic rivals to ease tensions. Armenia called on world leaders for assistance, indicating that Azerbaijani forces were advancing on its territory. pic.twitter.com/YGr04UxVnG

— Live News Now (@LiveNewsNow6) September 13, 2022

More than 6,500 were killed on both sides of the conflict between ex-Soviet republics over Nagorno-Karabakh, the most brutal war between the two since 2020. Moscow, Yerevan’s closest ally after the war, was distracted by its six-month invasion of Ukraine, which deployed thousands of peacekeepers in the region. According to the foreign ministry in Moscow, Russian forces succeeded in halting the clashes at 09:00 am Moscow time, bringing the conflicts to an end.

As a result of Russian mediation, we expect the ceasefire agreement to be fully implemented,” the ministry said. The ministry said that the increase in violence is “extremely concerning.” Following a call to French President Emmanuel Macron, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday morning, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed parliament on Tuesday morning to demand “an adequate response” to “Azerbaijan’s aggressive actions.”

Request Russia for Assistance

According to Azerbaijan, the country also suffered casualties, but it did not specify how many people died. A defense ministry official said Tuesday that artillery, mortars, and drones engaged Armenian territory toward Goris, Sotk, and Jermuk. It said in a statement that the enemy was trying to advance into Armenian territory.

On the other hand, Armenia accused Azerbaijan of large-scale subversion near Kelbajar, Dashkesan, and Lachin. It said its troops responded with “limited and targeted steps and counteracting Armenian firing positions.” The Turkish government has long backed Azerbaijan on political and military levels and has urged Yerevan to negotiate with the Azerbaijani government.

During a phone conversation with Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Armenia should cease its provocations and concentrate on peace talks and cooperation with Azerbaijan. In an emergency session on Tuesday, Pashinyan led the country’s security council to agree to ask Moscow for military assistance, as it is bound by a treaty to defend Armenia against foreign invasion.

Azerbaijan’s aggression against Armenia’s sovereign territory was discussed by Suren Papikyan and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu over the phone, according to the defense ministry in Yerevan, who agreed that necessary measures would be taken to stabilize the situation.” In addition to Armenia, several former Soviet republics in Central Asia are members of the CSTO, led by Russia.

The U.S. Concerned About the Situations

Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for an end to the fighting, expressing “deep concern” over the situation, which includes attacks on Armenian settlements and infrastructure. In a statement, Blinken said: “We have long made it clear that there can be no military solution to the conflict.” Any military hostilities should end immediately, he added.

In a border shootout last week, an Armenian soldier was allegedly killed by an Azerbaijani soldier. The Azerbaijani army lost a soldier in August, and the Karabakh army reported two soldiers killed and more than a dozen wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh region, Azerbaijan’s enclave populated by Armenians, was the center of two wars between Azerbaijan and Armenia in the 1990s and 2020.

After six weeks of brutal fighting, a Russian-brokered ceasefire was negotiated in October 2020. About 2,000 Russian peacekeepers were deployed to oversee a fragile truce as Armenia ceded territory it controlled for decades. During bilateral dialogues mediated by the European Union in April and May, Ilham Aliyev and Pashinyan agreed to advance negotiations on a future peace accord.

Read Also: Armenia and Azerbaijan battle for disputed Nagorno-Karabakh

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