skynewsus--2020-08-13--Uber warns it will shut down in California if it loses legal battle

Uber has warned it will have to shut down in California if it is forced to classify drivers as employees instead of independent contractors .
The ride-hailing giant is currently appealing against a Supreme Court judgment in the state that requires the company to recognise its drivers as employees and give them employment protections as a result .
On Wednesday , the company 's CEO Dara Khosrowshahi told MSNBC that Uber would struggle to immediately change its business model , as required by Californian law , and would temporarily suspend its business if it can not overturn the ruling .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK , where the Supreme Court is expected to make a final decision in a five-year-long legal battle over Uber giving its drivers basic employment protections , including the minimum wage and holiday pay .
Uber could be forced to pay tens of millions in compensation to impacted workers , as may other firms which fail to class their drivers and couriers as employees .
The judgment will reverberate across the so-called gig economy when it is delivered in the autumn - and Mr Khosrowshahi 's stance suggests the company may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least for a period , as a result .
`` We think the ruling [ in California ] was unfortunate .
We respect , obviously , the law and the court and the judge , '' he said .
`` If the court does n't reconsider then , in California , it 's hard to believe we 'll be able to switch our model to full-time employment quickly , so I think Uber will shut down for a while . ''
As part of the fight against the ruling - which has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including an op-ed in The New York Times - Uber and Lyft have sponsored a ballot initiative in California .
A ballot initiative is a form of direct democracy available in some US states which means that a petition to amend a particular statute can bring about a public vote on the matter .
The companies have managed to add Proposition 22 to the ballot paper in California , which will ask voters - alongside their vote for president - whether `` app-based transportation and delivery drivers '' should be exempt from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent contractors .
Mr Khosrowshahi said that if this proposition fails and Uber was forced to classify drivers as employees , then the service would be much smaller , more expensive , and geographically limited to city centres .
Uber has similarly consistently appealed decisions against its employment practices in the UK after a tribunal found it unlawfully classed drivers as independent contractors .
Instead , the tribunal found that drivers and couriers should be classed `` limb ( b ) '' workers , crucially allowing them access to holiday and sick pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Last year , Sir Terence Etherton , the second most senior judge in England and Wales , said in the High Court that the tribunal was `` not only entitled , but correct '' to class Uber drivers as workers .
At the time he said : `` Not only do we see no reason to disagree with the factual conclusions of the [ tribunal ] as to the working relationship between Uber and the drivers , but we consider that [ it ] was plainly correct . ''
During the course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has not implemented the tribunal 's findings - which the High Court upheld by a majority of two to one .
At the time a spokesperson for Uber told Sky News : `` This decision was not unanimous and does not reflect the reasons why the vast majority of drivers choose to use the Uber app .
`` We have been granted permission to appeal to the Supreme Court and will do so . ''
The App Drivers & Couriers Union ( ADCU ) has warned that Uber winning the case could result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the economy `` with millions of people pushed permanently into precarity '' .
It said it had received a letter from the Certification Office which says the ADCU could have its trade union listing revoked if Uber wins the case as its members would no longer be classified as workers .
Yaseen Aslam , the union president and lead claimant in the legal action , said : `` This is our final showdown with Uber but the stakes could not be higher for everyone .
`` If Uber wins , there will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to collapse employment as we know it and Uber-ize the entire economy , '' Mr Aslam said .
`` Uber drivers and other gig economy workers would be robbed of the right to unionise .
I trust we will prevail but the government and Uber should never have let it come to this . ''

Uber has warned it will have to shut down in California if it is forced to classify drivers as employees instead of independent contractors.
The ride-hailing giant is currently appealing against a Supreme Court judgment in the state that requires the company to recognise its drivers as employees and give them employment protections as a result.
On Wednesday, the company's CEO Dara Khosrowshahi told MSNBC that Uber would struggle to immediately change its business model, as required by Californian law, and would temporarily suspend its business if it cannot overturn the ruling.
Image: Uber is battling against drivers' rights in California and the UK
The company is fighting a similar case in the UK, where the Supreme Court is expected to make a final decision in a five-year-long legal battle over Uber giving its drivers basic employment protections, including the minimum wage and holiday pay.
Uber could be forced to pay tens of millions in compensation to impacted workers, as may other firms which fail to class their drivers and couriers as employees.
The judgment will reverberate across the so-called gig economy when it is delivered in the autumn - and Mr Khosrowshahi's stance suggests the company may cease operating in the UK too, at least for a period, as a result.
"We think the ruling [in California] was unfortunate. We respect, obviously, the law and the court and the judge," he said.
"If the court doesn't reconsider then, in California, it's hard to believe we'll be able to switch our model to full-time employment quickly, so I think Uber will shut down for a while."
Image: Uber and Lyft have sponsored a ballot initiative in California
As part of the fight against the ruling - which has been accompanied by a committed publicity campaign, including an op-ed in The New York Times - Uber and Lyft have sponsored a ballot initiative in California.
Advertisement
A ballot initiative is a form of direct democracy available in some US states which means that a petition to amend a particular statute can bring about a public vote on the matter.
The companies have managed to add Proposition 22 to the ballot paper in California, which will ask voters - alongside their vote for president - whether "app-based transportation and delivery drivers" should be exempt from laws classifying them as employees rather than independent contractors.
Mr Khosrowshahi said that if this proposition fails and Uber was forced to classify drivers as employees, then the service would be much smaller, more expensive, and geographically limited to city centres.
Uber has similarly consistently appealed decisions against its employment practices in the UK after a tribunal found it unlawfully classed drivers as independent contractors.
Instead, the tribunal found that drivers and couriers should be classed "limb (b)" workers, crucially allowing them access to holiday and sick pay, as well as collective bargaining rights.
Last year, Sir Terence Etherton, the second most senior judge in England and Wales, said in the High Court that the tribunal was "not only entitled, but correct" to class Uber drivers as workers.
At the time he said: "Not only do we see no reason to disagree with the factual conclusions of the [tribunal] as to the working relationship between Uber and the drivers, but we consider that [it] was plainly correct."
During the course of the appeals process, the company has not implemented the tribunal's findings - which the High Court upheld by a majority of two to one.
Image: In the UK a Supreme Court ruling is due this autumn
At the time a spokesperson for Uber told Sky News: "This decision was not unanimous and does not reflect the reasons why the vast majority of drivers choose to use the Uber app.
"We have been granted permission to appeal to the Supreme Court and will do so."
The App Drivers & Couriers Union (ADCU) has warned that Uber winning the case could result in a widespread collapse in worker rights across the economy "with millions of people pushed permanently into precarity".
It said it had received a letter from the Certification Office which says the ADCU could have its trade union listing revoked if Uber wins the case as its members would no longer be classified as workers.
Yaseen Aslam, the union president and lead claimant in the legal action, said: "This is our final showdown with Uber but the stakes could not be higher for everyone.
"If Uber wins, there will be an unseemly rush by greedy employers to collapse employment as we know it and Uber-ize the entire economy," Mr Aslam said.
"Uber drivers and other gig economy workers would be robbed of the right to unionise. I trust we will prevail but the government and Uber should never have let it come to this."


skynewsus--2020-08-13--UK seeks to remove US tariffs on Scotch whisky amid bitter EU trade fight

The UK 's trade secretary has pledged a renewed effort to remove `` damaging '' tariffs on Scotch whisky , which is caught up in a 16-year old trade spat between the US and EU over aircraft subsidies .
US trade representative Robert Lighthizer confirmed on Wednesday night that the Trump administration would maintain 15 % tariffs on Airbus aircraft and 25 % tariffs on other European goods , including Scotch whisky , that were imposed last year following a World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) ruling on state aid .
He accused the EU of not taking the actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandatory review of the charges but stopped short of a threat to extend tariffs to vodka , gin and beer .
The announcement was made ahead of a separate ruling , due later this year , that is expected to find in the EU 's favour concerning US financial aid to Boeing .
The US declared itself in full compliance with WTO findings in May after Washington state abolished aerospace industry tax breaks that largely benefited the American planemaker .
Ahead of Wednesday night 's announcement by Mr Lighthizer , Airbus had said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Spain in a `` final '' bid to reverse US tariffs .
The US made several adjustments to its tariff regime , imposed last October , that sees an array of EU food , wine and spirits , including Italian cheese and single malt Scotch , cost more to be imported into the US .
It said it would modify its list of $ 7.5bn of affected European products to remove certain goods from Greece and Britain but did not elaborate and said more of the burden would be felt by Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU to `` respond appropriately to defend its interests and the interests of all the European companies and sectors , including Airbus , targeted by these tariffs '' .
EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan pledged to maintain engagement with Mr Lighthizer to bring the dispute to an end .
In her response , UK Trade Secretary Liz Truss said the levies on Scotch were unacceptable .
`` These tariffs damage industry and livelihoods on both sides of the Atlantic and are in nobody 's interests , '' she said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks with the US to remove them as soon as possible . ''
The Scotch Whisky Association warned jobs were under threat from lost business .
Its chief executive Karen Betts said : `` The tariff is inflicting huge damage on the Scotch whisky sector , with exports to the US down 30 % since the tariff came into effect and the industry grappling with losses now totalling around £300m . ''

The UK's trade secretary has pledged a renewed effort to remove "damaging" tariffs on Scotch whisky, which is caught up in a 16-year old trade spat between the US and EU over aircraft subsidies.
US trade representative Robert Lighthizer confirmed on Wednesday night that the Trump administration would maintain 15% tariffs on Airbus aircraft and 25% tariffs on other European goods, including Scotch whisky, that were imposed last year following a World Trade Organisation (WTO) ruling on state aid.
He accused the EU of not taking the actions necessary to meet its obligations following a mandatory review of the charges but stopped short of a threat to extend tariffs to vodka, gin and beer.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 Trump tax on British gin would make it 'unviable'
The announcement was made ahead of a separate ruling, due later this year, that is expected to find in the EU's favour concerning US financial aid to Boeing.
The US declared itself in full compliance with WTO findings in May after Washington state abolished aerospace industry tax breaks that largely benefited the American planemaker.
Ahead of Wednesday night's announcement by Mr Lighthizer, Airbus had said it would increase loan repayments to France and Spain in a "final" bid to reverse US tariffs.
Image: Airbus needs the EU to resolve the dispute as it reels from COVID-19 damage to the airline industry
The US made several adjustments to its tariff regime, imposed last October, that sees an array of EU food, wine and spirits, including Italian cheese and single malt Scotch, cost more to be imported into the US.
It said it would modify its list of $7.5bn of affected European products to remove certain goods from Greece and Britain but did not elaborate and said more of the burden would be felt by Germany and France instead.
Airbus called on the EU to "respond appropriately to defend its interests and the interests of all the European companies and sectors, including Airbus, targeted by these tariffs".
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Image: Scotch whisky accounts for about 20% of all UK food and drink exports, according to industry figures
EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan pledged to maintain engagement with Mr Lighthizer to bring the dispute to an end.
In her response, UK Trade Secretary Liz Truss said the levies on Scotch were unacceptable.
"These tariffs damage industry and livelihoods on both sides of the Atlantic and are in nobody's interests," she said in a statement.
"I am therefore stepping up talks with the US to remove them as soon as possible."
The Scotch Whisky Association warned jobs were under threat from lost business.
Its chief executive Karen Betts said: "The tariff is inflicting huge damage on the Scotch whisky sector, with exports to the US down 30% since the tariff came into effect and the industry grappling with losses now totalling around £300m."


skynewsus--2020-08-13--US jobless claims dip below a million as Wall Street rebounds

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits has fallen below one million for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic .
However , last week 's drop has been put down to the ending of a $ 600 weekly supplement , which is likely to have discouraged some from filing claims .
The updated figures from the Labor Department did little to change economists ' views that the jobs market recovery was faltering in the face of the continuing coronavirus emergency .
Chris Rupkey , chief economist at MUFG in New York , said : `` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a long way to go to stop the bleeding of the labour markets and part of the reason for reduced filings looks to be tied to the expiration of that $ 600 weekly turbo-boost for unemployment benefits from the expired federal programme at the end of July . ''
Initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell 228,000 to a seasonally adjusted 963,000 for the week ending 8 August .
That was the lowest level since mid-March when authorities started shutting down non-essential business to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
Even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are well above their 695,000 peak during the financial crash in 2008 .
A total 28.3 million people were receiving unemployment benefit at the end of July .
Data last week showed the economy had regained only 9.3 million jobs of the 22 million lost between February and April , indicating that it faces a long road to reach pre-pandemic levels .
In contrast , Wall Street has recovered most of the trillions of dollars in losses at the start of the pandemic and the benchmark S & P 500 was within a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The tech-heavy Nasdaq was the first of the three major indexes to hit a record high in June .
However , the blue-chip Dow is about 5.6 % below its February peak .
Stocks in Apple rose 2.4 % to about $ 463.09 ( £354.80 ) , less than $ 5 ( £3.83 ) a share shy of the tech giant being valued at $ 2trn ( £1.53trn ) .
Ryan Detrick , senior market strategist at LPL Financial in Charlotte , North Carolina , said `` Our take on a new high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's another reminder to investors how disconnected the stock market and the economy have been this year .
`` The stocks have soared but the economy - it 's improved , yes - but a million initial claims is still not good . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Meanwhile , markets continued to hold on to hopes the Democrats and the Trump administration would reach an agreement for a stimulus to help the economy recover .
Unemployment benefits have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The US presidential election is also expected to add another layer of uncertainty into markets , with roughly 12 weeks remaining until election day .
`` The fact that interest rates are so low , people really have no place to put money , '' said Kevin Miller , chief investment officer of Minnesota-based E-Valuator Funds .
`` A lot of the larger companies that make up the S & P 500 have a heavy cash position , they really have strong free cash flow , so it 's a magnet for @ @ @ @

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits has fallen below one million for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, last week's drop has been put down to the ending of a $600 weekly supplement, which is likely to have discouraged some from filing claims.
The updated figures from the Labor Department did little to change economists' views that the jobs market recovery was faltering in the face of the continuing coronavirus emergency.
Image: The stock market and economy are 'disconnected', say analysts
Chris Rupkey, chief economist at MUFG in New York, said: "It is too early to declare victory as there is a long way to go to stop the bleeding of the labour markets and part of the reason for reduced filings looks to be tied to the expiration of that $600 weekly turbo-boost for unemployment benefits from the expired federal programme at the end of July."
Initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell 228,000 to a seasonally adjusted 963,000 for the week ending 8 August.
That was the lowest level since mid-March when authorities started shutting down non-essential business to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Claims peaked at a record 6.9 million in late March.
Even with last week's fall, claims are well above their 695,000 peak during the financial crash in 2008.
A total 28.3 million people were receiving unemployment benefit at the end of July.
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Data last week showed the economy had regained only 9.3 million jobs of the 22 million lost between February and April, indicating that it faces a long road to reach pre-pandemic levels.
In contrast, Wall Street has recovered most of the trillions of dollars in losses at the start of the pandemic and the benchmark S&P 500 was within a few points of a record high.
Image: The rise in share price puts Apple close to be being valued at $2trn
The tech-heavy Nasdaq was the first of the three major indexes to hit a record high in June.
However, the blue-chip Dow is about 5.6% below its February peak.
Stocks in Apple rose 2.4% to about $463.09 (£354.80), less than $5 (£3.83) a share shy of the tech giant being valued at $2trn (£1.53trn).
Ryan Detrick, senior market strategist at LPL Financial in Charlotte, North Carolina, said "Our take on a new high, if it happens, is that it's another reminder to investors how disconnected the stock market and the economy have been this year.
"The stocks have soared but the economy - it's improved, yes - but a million initial claims is still not good."
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Meanwhile, markets continued to hold on to hopes the Democrats and the Trump administration would reach an agreement for a stimulus to help the economy recover.
Unemployment benefits have been a sticking point in their talks.
The US presidential election is also expected to add another layer of uncertainty into markets, with roughly 12 weeks remaining until election day.
"The fact that interest rates are so low, people really have no place to put money," said Kevin Miller, chief investment officer of Minnesota-based E-Valuator Funds.
"A lot of the larger companies that make up the S&P 500 have a heavy cash position, they really have strong free cash flow, so it's a magnet for investor dollars."


skynewsus--2020-08-13--Israel to halt Palestinian land annexation in 'historic' deal with UAE

The United Arab Emirates ( UAE ) and Israel are to establish diplomatic ties in a deal halting the planned annexation of occupied land sought by the Palestinians .
US President Donald Trump announced the deal on Thursday after successfully getting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan to agree normalising relations between their two countries .
The deal , to be signed in the coming weeks , will see Israel backing down from `` unilateral annexation '' of areas of the occupied West Bank - land sought by the Palestinians for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gabi Ashkenazi said .
It also firms up opposition to regional power Iran , which the UAE , Israel and the US view as the main threat in the region .
Israel signed peace agreements with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994 but the UAE , along with most other Arab nations , did not recognise Israel and had no formal diplomatic or economic relations with the Jewish nation - until now .
A joint statement tweeted out by Mr Trump said delegations from Israel and the UAE will meet to sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , direct flights , security , telecommunications , technology , energy , healthcare , culture , the environment , the establishment of reciprocal embassies and other areas of mutual benefit '' .
It added that both leaders had expressed their `` deep appreciation '' to Mr Trump `` for his dedication to peace in the region and to the pragmatic and unique approach he has taken to achieve it '' .
Israeli MPs have welcomed the deal , with defence minister Benny Gantz saying it expressed an `` alliance '' between countries in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosperity , adding that it would have `` many positive implications '' on the region .
The Hamas militant group , which wants to destroy Israel , accused the UAE of stabbing the Palestinians in the back .
`` This announcement is a reward for the Israeli occupation 's crimes , '' said Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum .
`` The normalisation is a stabbing in the back of our people . ''
`` The UAE is using its gravitas and promise of a relationship to unscrew a time bomb that is threatening a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said embassies in both countries would open soon , adding that `` this is for real '' but admitted `` nothing is perfect in a very difficult region '' .
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the deal was `` hugely good news '' , while Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the UK welcomed the `` historic step '' .
He said : `` We welcome both the decision by the UAE to normalise relations with Israel , as well as the suspension of plans for annexation - a move the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counterproductive to securing peace in the region .
`` Ultimately , there is no substitute for direct talks between the Palestinians and Israel , which is the only way to a reach a two-state solution and a lasting peace . ''
Analysis : A big win for Trump and Israel - but the Palestinians have been left out in the cold It 's more than 25 years since an Arab country normalised ties with Israel .
No wonder President Trump calls it `` a truly historic moment '' .
He is n't wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two countries in the Arab world with relatively normal relations with the Jewish State of Israel - Egypt and Jordan .
Today 's announcement at the White House was a rabbit-out-of-hat moment in the sense that it was not billed and not expected now .
Yes - it 's true that for some time , quietly in the background the United Arab Emirates ( UAE ) and Israel have warmed their relations .
But the formal announcement of the normalisation of relations with a key Arab nation combined with a commitment by Israel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ annex large parts of the occupied West Bank - this is big , important news .
The deal has been named the Abraham accord .
Abraham was the father of all three great faiths at the core of the struggle for Middle East peace .
The three signatures of this deal believe it could pave the way for dramatic changes in the region .
The expectation is that other Arab states could now follow the UAE .
The deal , says Donald Trump , will be an `` ice breaker '' for countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others to normalise their relations with the Jewish State .
For commerce , for tourism , for aviation , for geopolitics , this is certainly a crucial juncture in the long road to Middle East peace .
Iran is the common enemy of Israel and much of the Arab world .
This accord strengthens the anti-Iran axis but also potentially strengthens efforts for dialogue there .
The UAE and Iran have dialogue that can now , indirectly , be extended to Israel .
But in all this , one key player has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rumour is that they were not consulted at all in this deal .
While it is positive for Palestinians that the annexation plans are - it seems - off , there is a deep sense of betrayal .
Just look at how Hanan Ashrawi , one of the most senior and seasoned Palestinian diplomats , replied to the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince 's tweet .
`` May you never experience the agony of having your country stolen ; may you never feel the pain of living in captivity under occupation ; may you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or murder of your loved ones .
May you never be sold out by your 'friends ' , '' she wrote .
This is a big win for Donald Trump .
It is a big win for Israel ( though more for pragmatists than hard-line settlers ) .
But for the Palestinians what does it mean ?
Well - for decades the price Arabs have asked from Israel for the normalisation of relations has been a Palestinian State .
But no longer .
Is this the clearest sign yet that Arab sympathy for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and an axis against Iran trumps the Palestinian cause ?
Maybe .
A Palestinian state still far off .
For Palestinians , the Abraham Accord has staved off annexation but the status quo of occupation will rumble on .

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel are to establish diplomatic ties in a deal halting the planned annexation of occupied land sought by the Palestinians.
US President Donald Trump announced the deal on Thursday after successfully getting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan to agree normalising relations between their two countries.
The deal, to be signed in the coming weeks, will see Israel backing down from "unilateral annexation" of areas of the occupied West Bank - land sought by the Palestinians for their future state, Israeli foreign minister Gabi Ashkenazi said.
It also firms up opposition to regional power Iran, which the UAE, Israel and the US view as the main threat in the region.
Israel signed peace agreements with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994 but the UAE, along with most other Arab nations, did not recognise Israel and had no formal diplomatic or economic relations with the Jewish nation - until now.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:55 Israel strikes breakthrough deal with UAE
A joint statement tweeted out by Mr Trump said delegations from Israel and the UAE will meet to sign bilateral agreements on "investment, tourism, direct flights, security, telecommunications, technology, energy, healthcare, culture, the environment, the establishment of reciprocal embassies and other areas of mutual benefit".
It added that both leaders had expressed their "deep appreciation" to Mr Trump "for his dedication to peace in the region and to the pragmatic and unique approach he has taken to achieve it".
Israeli MPs have welcomed the deal, with defence minister Benny Gantz saying it expressed an "alliance" between countries in the region who aim for stability and prosperity, adding that it would have "many positive implications" on the region.
The Hamas militant group, which wants to destroy Israel, accused the UAE of stabbing the Palestinians in the back.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 'Win-win' deal for Israel and UAE
"This announcement is a reward for the Israeli occupation's crimes," said Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum.
"The normalisation is a stabbing in the back of our people."
UAE foreign minister Anwar Gargash called the deal "a bold step".
"The UAE is using its gravitas and promise of a relationship to unscrew a time bomb that is threatening a two-state solution," he added.
He said embassies in both countries would open soon, adding that "this is for real" but admitted "nothing is perfect in a very difficult region".
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the deal was "hugely good news", while Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the UK welcomed the "historic step".
He said: "We welcome both the decision by the UAE to normalise relations with Israel, as well as the suspension of plans for annexation - a move the UK has opposed as it would have been counterproductive to securing peace in the region.
"Ultimately, there is no substitute for direct talks between the Palestinians and Israel, which is the only way to a reach a two-state solution and a lasting peace."
Image: The UAE's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan (here pictured with Mike Pompeo) will also sign the deal
Analysis: A big win for Trump and Israel - but the Palestinians have been left out in the cold
By Mark Stone, Middle East correspondent
It's more than 25 years since an Arab country normalised ties with Israel.
No wonder President Trump calls it "a truly historic moment". He isn't wrong.
Until now there had only been two countries in the Arab world with relatively normal relations with the Jewish State of Israel - Egypt and Jordan.
Today's announcement at the White House was a rabbit-out-of-hat moment in the sense that it was not billed and not expected now.
Yes - it's true that for some time, quietly in the background the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel have warmed their relations.
But the formal announcement of the normalisation of relations with a key Arab nation combined with a commitment by Israel to suspend its heavily trailed plans to annex large parts of the occupied West Bank - this is big, important news.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 Netanyahu vows to annex part of West Bank
The deal has been named the Abraham accord. Abraham was the father of all three great faiths at the core of the struggle for Middle East peace.
The three signatures of this deal believe it could pave the way for dramatic changes in the region.
The expectation is that other Arab states could now follow the UAE. The deal, says Donald Trump, will be an "ice breaker" for countries like Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and others to normalise their relations with the Jewish State.
For commerce, for tourism, for aviation, for geopolitics, this is certainly a crucial juncture in the long road to Middle East peace.
Iran is the common enemy of Israel and much of the Arab world. This accord strengthens the anti-Iran axis but also potentially strengthens efforts for dialogue there. The UAE and Iran have dialogue that can now, indirectly, be extended to Israel.
But in all this, one key player has been left out: the Palestinians.
The rumour is that they were not consulted at all in this deal. While it is positive for Palestinians that the annexation plans are - it seems - off, there is a deep sense of betrayal.
Just look at how Hanan Ashrawi, one of the most senior and seasoned Palestinian diplomats, replied to the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's tweet.
"May you never experience the agony of having your country stolen; may you never feel the pain of living in captivity under occupation; may you never witness the demolition of your home or murder of your loved ones. May you never be sold out by your 'friends'," she wrote.
This is a big win for Donald Trump. It is a big win for Israel (though more for pragmatists than hard-line settlers). But for the Palestinians what does it mean?
Well - for decades the price Arabs have asked from Israel for the normalisation of relations has been a Palestinian State. But no longer.
Is this the clearest sign yet that Arab sympathy for Palestinians is waning? Trade, commerce and an axis against Iran trumps the Palestinian cause? Maybe.
A Palestinian state still far off. For Palestinians, the Abraham Accord has staved off annexation but the status quo of occupation will rumble on.


skynewsus--2020-08-13--Ghislaine Maxwell's complaint about treatment in jail rejected

US prosecutors have rejected a claim by Ghislaine Maxwell that she is being treated `` worse '' than other inmates at the Brooklyn federal jail where she is being held .
Maxwell , a close friend of the late financier and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein , is behind bars awaiting trial on charges including conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts .
The 58-year-old British socialite was arrested last month when FBI agents raided a property in New Hampshire .
In a letter to a US district judge earlier this week , Maxwell 's lawyers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uniquely onerous '' conditions , including 24-hour surveillance and numerous body scans , and said she should be treated like other pre-trial detainees .
They called her treatment in jail `` a reaction '' to Epstein 's jailing and death .
However , prosecutors said Maxwell was being isolated for reasons of `` safety , security , and the orderly functioning of the facility '' , and that it was appropriate to closely monitor new inmates facing a `` strong likelihood '' of many years in prison .
Maxwell 's lawyers also argued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charges against her because prosecutors will not tell them the identities of three accusers named in Maxwell 's indictment .
But prosecutors said it was `` at best premature '' to require they disclose the identities of the three alleged victims .
They added that they have acted `` expeditiously '' in turning over materials , and prison officials had agreed to give Maxwell 13 hours a day to review materials for her scheduled July 2021 trial , rather than the normal three hours .
Maxwell 's lawyers did not immediately respond to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has pleaded not guilty to helping Epstein recruit and eventually abuse three girls from 1994 to 1997 , and committing perjury by denying her involvement under oath .
She was denied bail in July after prosecutors argued she was a high risk to flee because evidence against her was strong and she had access to millions of dollars .
Maxwell also has connections worldwide along with citizenship in the US , the UK and France .
Epstein , 66 , was found hanged last August in a Manhattan jail , while awaiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reports , the pair dated for a while but the relationship later turned into something akin to a close friendship .

US prosecutors have rejected a claim by Ghislaine Maxwell that she is being treated "worse" than other inmates at the Brooklyn federal jail where she is being held.
Maxwell, a close friend of the late financier and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, is behind bars awaiting trial on charges including conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts.
The 58-year-old British socialite was arrested last month when FBI agents raided a property in New Hampshire.
In a letter to a US district judge earlier this week, Maxwell's lawyers objected to her being subjected to "uniquely onerous" conditions, including 24-hour surveillance and numerous body scans, and said she should be treated like other pre-trial detainees.
They called her treatment in jail "a reaction" to Epstein's jailing and death.
However, prosecutors said Maxwell was being isolated for reasons of "safety, security, and the orderly functioning of the facility", and that it was appropriate to closely monitor new inmates facing a "strong likelihood" of many years in prison.
Maxwell's lawyers also argued that they cannot properly investigate the charges against her because prosecutors will not tell them the identities of three accusers named in Maxwell's indictment.
But prosecutors said it was "at best premature" to require they disclose the identities of the three alleged victims.
They added that they have acted "expeditiously" in turning over materials, and prison officials had agreed to give Maxwell 13 hours a day to review materials for her scheduled July 2021 trial, rather than the normal three hours.
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Maxwell's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Maxwell has pleaded not guilty to helping Epstein recruit and eventually abuse three girls from 1994 to 1997, and committing perjury by denying her involvement under oath.
She was denied bail in July after prosecutors argued she was a high risk to flee because evidence against her was strong and she had access to millions of dollars.
Maxwell also has connections worldwide along with citizenship in the US, the UK and France.
Epstein, 66, was found hanged last August in a Manhattan jail, while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
According to reports, the pair dated for a while but the relationship later turned into something akin to a close friendship.


skynewsus--2020-08-13--Harry and Meghan 'buy £11m home in Santa Barbara'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly bought an £11m home in the celebrity hotspot of Santa Barbara .
The couple were said to be house-hunting in the US before the coronavirus lockdown after moving there from Canada .
Santa Barbara , on the coast of California , is home to stars including Oprah Winfrey and popstar Ariana Grande , while a host of famous names such as actors Jeff Bridges and Rob Lowe and chat show host Ellen DeGeneres have been past residents .
The Sussexes ' reported new nine-bedroom house , which is said to have cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a games room , home theatre , a lift , a gym and a swimming pool .
Alongside the main house , which stands at 14,500 sq ft , there is also a two-bedroom guesthouse and tennis court .
Harry and Meghan 's new estate was bought by a company that matches limited liability companies started by the couple , according to reports .
A spokesman for the couple said : `` The Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved into their family home in July of this year .
`` They have settled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since their arrival and hope that this will be respected for their neighbours , as well as for them as a family . ''
It is understood that the Prince of Wales had no hand in helping purchasing the estate .
: : Listen to the Behind the Headlines podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It is the latest move by the Duke and Duchess to distance themselves from royal life , after announcing they were stepping back from duties and becoming financially independent earlier this year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be working members of the monarchy and no longer be known as HRH , while splitting their time between Canada and the UK , with the majority spent in North America .

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly bought an £11m home in the celebrity hotspot of Santa Barbara.
The couple were said to be house-hunting in the US before the coronavirus lockdown after moving there from Canada.
Santa Barbara, on the coast of California, is home to stars including Oprah Winfrey and popstar Ariana Grande, while a host of famous names such as actors Jeff Bridges and Rob Lowe and chat show host Ellen DeGeneres have been past residents.
Image: The Sussexes have reportedly settled in Santa Barbara in California
The Sussexes' reported new nine-bedroom house, which is said to have cost $14.65m (£11.1m), includes a games room, home theatre, a lift, a gym and a swimming pool.
Alongside the main house, which stands at 14,500 sq ft, there is also a two-bedroom guesthouse and tennis court.
Harry and Meghan's new estate was bought by a company that matches limited liability companies started by the couple, according to reports.
A spokesman for the couple said: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved into their family home in July of this year.
"They have settled into the quiet privacy of their community since their arrival and hope that this will be respected for their neighbours, as well as for them as a family."
It is understood that the Prince of Wales had no hand in helping purchasing the estate.
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:: Listen to the Behind the Headlines podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It is the latest move by the Duke and Duchess to distance themselves from royal life, after announcing they were stepping back from duties and becoming financially independent earlier this year.
It was announced they would no longer be working members of the monarchy and no longer be known as HRH, while splitting their time between Canada and the UK, with the majority spent in North America.


skynewsus--2020-08-13--IS hacker charged with selling fake PPE online

The US has accused an Islamic State hacker of selling fake personal protective equipment online during the coronavirus pandemic to provide funding for the terrorist organisation .
Murat Cakar , an Islamic State facilitator who managed some of the terrorist organisation 's hacking operations , allegedly sold fake personal protective equipment via the FaceMaskCenter.com website .
It comes as the US Department of Justice announced three large seizures of cryptocurrency , including Bitcoin - equivalent to about two million dollars - used by terrorist organisations , including Islamic State , al Qaeda , and the al Qassam Brigades , Hamas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigation which stretched across multiple US agencies , including financial experts , cyber security specialists , as well as undercover operations and covert sources .
According to the DoJ : `` Each [ terrorist ] group used cryptocurrency and social media to garner attention and raise funds for their terror campaigns . ''
`` Pursuant to judicially-authorised warrants , US authorities seized millions of dollars , over 300 cryptocurrency accounts , four websites , and four Facebook pages all related to the criminal enterprise , '' the agency added .
`` It should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modern technology , social media platforms and cryptocurrency to facilitate their evil and violent agendas , '' said the US attorney general William Barr .
`` Terrorist networks have adapted to technology , conducting complex financial transactions in the digital world , including through cryptocurrencies , '' added Steven Mnuchin , the treasury secretary .
He added : `` Today 's actions demonstrate our ongoing commitment to holding malign actors accountable for their crimes . ''
The cryptocurrency funds have been seized in a civil forfeiture action and will be directed to US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cakar , a Turkish citizen who has been of interest to the FBI since 2017 , was accused of claiming to have an `` unlimited '' supply of FDA approved N95 respirator masks , when in fact the items were not FDA approved and not unlimited .
Al Qaeda affiliates , largely based out of Syria , `` operated a bitcoin money laundering network using Telegram channels and other social media platforms to solicit cryptocurrency donations to further their terrorist goals , '' according to the DoJ .
`` In some instances , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in fact , they were openly and explicitly soliciting funds for violent terrorist attacks .
For example , one post from a charity sought donations to equip terrorists in Syria with weapons . ''
Donations to the al Qassem Brigades were uncovered by US agents , seizing 150 cryptocurrency accounts that laundered funds to and from the al Qassam Brigades ' accounts .
The US took control of some cryptocurrency wallets being used by the al Qassam Brigades and held it for a month , receiving funds intended for the terrorist organisation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law enforcement in the US `` executed criminal search warrants relating to United States-based subjects who donated to the terrorist campaign , '' the DoJ stated .

The US has accused an Islamic State hacker of selling fake personal protective equipment online during the coronavirus pandemic to provide funding for the terrorist organisation.
Murat Cakar, an Islamic State facilitator who managed some of the terrorist organisation's hacking operations, allegedly sold fake personal protective equipment via the FaceMaskCenter.com website.
It comes as the US Department of Justice announced three large seizures of cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin - equivalent to about two million dollars - used by terrorist organisations, including Islamic State, al Qaeda, and the al Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing.
Image: Terrorist organisations solicited Bitcoin online. Pic: US DoJ
It followed an investigation which stretched across multiple US agencies, including financial experts, cyber security specialists, as well as undercover operations and covert sources.
According to the DoJ: "Each [terrorist] group used cryptocurrency and social media to garner attention and raise funds for their terror campaigns."
"Pursuant to judicially-authorised warrants, US authorities seized millions of dollars, over 300 cryptocurrency accounts, four websites, and four Facebook pages all related to the criminal enterprise," the agency added.
"It should not surprise anyone that our enemies use modern technology, social media platforms and cryptocurrency to facilitate their evil and violent agendas," said the US attorney general William Barr.
"Terrorist networks have adapted to technology, conducting complex financial transactions in the digital world, including through cryptocurrencies," added Steven Mnuchin, the treasury secretary.
He added: "Today's actions demonstrate our ongoing commitment to holding malign actors accountable for their crimes."
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Image: Islamic State requested donations via Bitcoin
The cryptocurrency funds have been seized in a civil forfeiture action and will be directed to US funds for victims of state-sponsored terrorism.
Cakar, a Turkish citizen who has been of interest to the FBI since 2017, was accused of claiming to have an "unlimited" supply of FDA approved N95 respirator masks, when in fact the items were not FDA approved and not unlimited.
Al Qaeda affiliates, largely based out of Syria, "operated a bitcoin money laundering network using Telegram channels and other social media platforms to solicit cryptocurrency donations to further their terrorist goals," according to the DoJ.
"In some instances, they purported to act as charities when, in fact, they were openly and explicitly soliciting funds for violent terrorist attacks. For example, one post from a charity sought donations to equip terrorists in Syria with weapons."
Donations to the al Qassem Brigades were uncovered by US agents, seizing 150 cryptocurrency accounts that laundered funds to and from the al Qassam Brigades' accounts.
The US took control of some cryptocurrency wallets being used by the al Qassam Brigades and held it for a month, receiving funds intended for the terrorist organisation.
As a result of this, law enforcement in the US "executed criminal search warrants relating to United States-based subjects who donated to the terrorist campaign," the DoJ stated.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--Trump fuels 'birther' conspiracy theory about Kamala Harris

US President Donald Trump has fuelled a discredited conspiracy theory about Joe Biden 's Democratic running mate Kamala Harris which suggested she may not be eligible to serve in the White House .
Born to a Jamaican father and Indian mother in Oakland , California , in 1964 , Ms Harris would be the first black and Asian American vice president if Mr Biden wins the November election .
Mr Trump - who for years led the false so-called `` birther '' movement which cast doubt on former president Barack Obama 's US citizenship and eligibility to serve - told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she `` does n't qualify '' .
He was responding to a question about an article in Newsweek by John Eastman , a conservative law professor , who questioned Ms Harris 's eligibility under the US Constitution because both of her parents are immigrants - a theory that critics have branded `` racist '' .
The president said at a news briefing : `` I just heard it today that she does n't meet the requirements and by the way the lawyer that wrote that piece is a very highly qualified , very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ idea if that 's right .
I would have assumed the Democrats would have checked that out before she gets chosen to run for vice president . ''
He added : `` But that 's a very serious ... you 're saying that , they 're saying that she does n't qualify because she was n't born in this country . ''
The reporter replied that Ms Harris was born in the US , but the claims suggest her parents may not have been legal permanent residents at that time .
Earlier on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Trump 's senior legal advisers , reposted a tweet from the head of conservative group Judicial Watch , which questioned whether Ms Harris was `` ineligible to be vice president under the US Constitution 's 'Citizenship Clause ' '' .
The US Constitution rules an American leader must be a natural-born citizen - which constitutional experts say makes the 55-year-old Californian senator eligible .
In his essay , Prof Eastman points to Article II of the constitution , saying : `` No person except a natural born citizen ... shall be eligible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His argument hinges on the idea that Ms Harris may not have been subject to `` complete '' US jurisdiction if her parents were , for example , on student visas at the time of their daughter 's birth .
Constitutional law experts swiftly shut down the conspiracy theory , noting that the constitution is clear .
Josh Chafetz , a professor at Georgetown University Law Centre who specialises in constitutional law , told the website FactCheck.org : `` To serve as president , one must be at least 35 years old , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States for at least 14 years , and be a 'natural born Citizen ' ( Article II , sec .
1 of the Constitution ) .
Additionally , one can not have already been president for more than a term and a half ( 22nd Amendment ) . ''
He also called the conspiracy theory `` racist nonsense '' .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Meghan McCain , the daughter of former Republican candidate John McCain , tweeted : `` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American politics about birth qualification which is all clear and obvious .
Stop . ''
John McCain faced questions about his eligibility to serve as president , given he was born on a US naval base in Panama .

US President Donald Trump has fuelled a discredited conspiracy theory about Joe Biden's Democratic running mate Kamala Harris which suggested she may not be eligible to serve in the White House.
Born to a Jamaican father and Indian mother in Oakland, California, in 1964, Ms Harris would be the first black and Asian American vice president if Mr Biden wins the November election.
Mr Trump - who for years led the false so-called "birther" movement which cast doubt on former president Barack Obama's US citizenship and eligibility to serve - told reporters he had "heard" that she "doesn't qualify".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:03 Kamala Harris takes aim at Trump
He was responding to a question about an article in Newsweek by John Eastman, a conservative law professor, who questioned Ms Harris's eligibility under the US Constitution because both of her parents are immigrants - a theory that critics have branded "racist".
The president said at a news briefing: "I just heard it today that she doesn't meet the requirements and by the way the lawyer that wrote that piece is a very highly qualified, very talented lawyer.
"I have no idea if that's right. I would have assumed the Democrats would have checked that out before she gets chosen to run for vice president."
He added: "But that's a very serious... you're saying that, they're saying that she doesn't qualify because she wasn't born in this country."
The reporter replied that Ms Harris was born in the US, but the claims suggest her parents may not have been legal permanent residents at that time.
Earlier on Thursday, Jenna Ellis, one of Mr Trump's senior legal advisers, reposted a tweet from the head of conservative group Judicial Watch, which questioned whether Ms Harris was "ineligible to be vice president under the US Constitution's 'Citizenship Clause'".
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:53 Biden picks Kamala Harris as running mate
The US Constitution rules an American leader must be a natural-born citizen - which constitutional experts say makes the 55-year-old Californian senator eligible.
In his essay, Prof Eastman points to Article II of the constitution, saying: "No person except a natural born citizen... shall be eligible to the office of President."
His argument hinges on the idea that Ms Harris may not have been subject to "complete" US jurisdiction if her parents were, for example, on student visas at the time of their daughter's birth.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:23 Clinton calls for 'less sexist' coverage of election
Constitutional law experts swiftly shut down the conspiracy theory, noting that the constitution is clear.
Josh Chafetz, a professor at Georgetown University Law Centre who specialises in constitutional law, told the website FactCheck.org: "To serve as president, one must be at least 35 years old, have been a resident of the United States for at least 14 years, and be a 'natural born Citizen' (Article II, sec. 1 of the Constitution). Additionally, one cannot have already been president for more than a term and a half (22nd Amendment)."
He also called the conspiracy theory "racist nonsense".
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Meghan McCain, the daughter of former Republican candidate John McCain, tweeted: "This is a gross, dark trend in American politics about birth qualification which is all clear and obvious. Stop."
John McCain faced questions about his eligibility to serve as president, given he was born on a US naval base in Panama.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--Trump hit by blunt question over whether he 'regrets all the lying'

Donald Trump swerved a question from a reporter suggesting he had consistently lied to the American people during his presidency .
Mr Trump was expected to give an update on the coronavirus pandemic in the US during a White House press conference on Thursday , but the briefing quickly moved on to other topics .
`` Mr President ... after three and a half years , do you regret at all , all the lying you 've done to the American people ?
, '' asked S.V Date , a veteran journalist for the Huffington Post .
Mr Trump asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to which he replied : `` All the lying .
All the dishonesties . ''
`` That who has done ?
, '' asked a still confused president .
Mr Date made clear that he was asking about Mr Trump himself , prompting the president to turn his gaze to another journalist and give them the chance to ask a question instead , without offering up an answer or defence .
`` Go ahead , please , '' the president repeated , keen to move on from his exchange with Mr Date .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has long urged White House journalists to push back against the president 's claims , tweeted : `` For five years I 've been wanting to ask him that . ''
Previously , an investigation by The Washington Post claimed that Mr Trump had made more than 20,000 false or misleading statements since he took office in January 2017 .
His record is under ever-increasing scrutiny as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout much of the US , which has more confirmed cases than any other country with just shy of 5.3 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with COVID-19 in the US , which is also the highest count globally , according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the pandemic .
Mr Date also tweeted that Mr Trump was using his news briefing to deliver a partisan campaign speech , which he suggested could be in violation of the law if White House staff had been involved .
The president took aim at Kamala Harris during the briefing , amplifying a conspiracy theory that Joe Biden 's running mate for the upcoming election was not born in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vice president .
Ms Harris - who earlier this week became the first woman of colour to be nominated for national office by a major US political party - was born in Oakland , California .
Mr Trump previously questioned whether Barack Obama was eligible to be president for the same reason , and only stopped after his predecessor released a birth certificate proving that he was born in Hawaii .

Donald Trump swerved a question from a reporter suggesting he had consistently lied to the American people during his presidency.
Mr Trump was expected to give an update on the coronavirus pandemic in the US during a White House press conference on Thursday, but the briefing quickly moved on to other topics.
"Mr President... after three and a half years, do you regret at all, all the lying you've done to the American people?," asked S.V Date, a veteran journalist for the Huffington Post.
Mr Trump asked the correspondent to clarify his question, to which he replied: "All the lying. All the dishonesties."
"That who has done?," asked a still confused president.
Mr Date made clear that he was asking about Mr Trump himself, prompting the president to turn his gaze to another journalist and give them the chance to ask a question instead, without offering up an answer or defence.
"Go ahead, please," the president repeated, keen to move on from his exchange with Mr Date.
After the briefing, Mr Date, who has long urged White House journalists to push back against the president's claims, tweeted: "For five years I've been wanting to ask him that."
Previously, an investigation by The Washington Post claimed that Mr Trump had made more than 20,000 false or misleading statements since he took office in January 2017.
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His record is under ever-increasing scrutiny as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout much of the US, which has more confirmed cases than any other country with just shy of 5.3 million.
More than 167,250 people have died with COVID-19 in the US, which is also the highest count globally, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the pandemic.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Date also tweeted that Mr Trump was using his news briefing to deliver a partisan campaign speech, which he suggested could be in violation of the law if White House staff had been involved.
The president took aim at Kamala Harris during the briefing, amplifying a conspiracy theory that Joe Biden's running mate for the upcoming election was not born in the US and therefore unqualified to serve as vice president.
Ms Harris - who earlier this week became the first woman of colour to be nominated for national office by a major US political party - was born in Oakland, California.
Mr Trump previously questioned whether Barack Obama was eligible to be president for the same reason, and only stopped after his predecessor released a birth certificate proving that he was born in Hawaii.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--Chrissy Teigen and John Legend reveal baby news... in a music video

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have announced that they are expecting their third child together .
The model and the singer first hinted at the happy news in Legend 's latest music video , which featured Teigen and their two children Luna , 4 , and Miles , 2 .
Shot in Mexico , the video features Teigen , 34 , and Legend , 41 , cradling her baby bump on a beautiful beach , while their children play .
Video-hosting service Vevo teased the premiere on Twitter , hinting that there was more to the new release than first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` John Legend and Chrissy Teigen drive us 'Wild ' in the heartfelt visuals for John 's latest song with Gary Lee Clark Jr !
Be sure to watch it now for a beautiful surprise ! ''
The new track features Grammy-winning singer-guitarist Gary Clark Jr , and is from Legend 's recent album Bigger Love .
It was directed by Nabil Elderkin , who first introduced Legend to Teigen 14 years ago on the set of his video for Stereo .
They tied the knot seven years later in Italy .
Teigen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - in her own very blunt way - showing off her growing bump and writing : `` Look at this third baby s*** .
What ?
Oh my god . ''
Known for her honest social media posts , Teigen has previously shared photos of her breastfeeding her daughter Luna , in a bid to destigmatise and normalise natural nursing .
She also shared a photo of her son , Miles , when he was six-months old wearing a helmet to correct flat-head syndrome , promoting awareness of the common condition .
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker According to the American Academy of Paediatrics ( AAP ) head-shaping helmets help to fix plagiocephaly , a condition that occurs from a baby 's sleep position and results in a misshapen or flat head .
However , here in the UK , the NHS does not recommend helmets due to lack of evidence that they work .
Teigen has spoken openly about her past battles with post-natal depression .
The couple have n't revealed the baby 's due date , but it seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition to their family in early 2021 .

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have announced that they are expecting their third child together.
The model and the singer first hinted at the happy news in Legend's latest music video, which featured Teigen and their two children Luna, 4, and Miles, 2.
Image: They already have two children together - Luna and Miles
Shot in Mexico, the video features Teigen, 34, and Legend, 41, cradling her baby bump on a beautiful beach, while their children play.
Video-hosting service Vevo teased the premiere on Twitter, hinting that there was more to the new release than first met the eye.
They wrote: "John Legend and Chrissy Teigen drive us 'Wild' in the heartfelt visuals for John's latest song with Gary Lee Clark Jr! Be sure to watch it now for a beautiful surprise!"
The new track features Grammy-winning singer-guitarist Gary Clark Jr, and is from Legend's recent album Bigger Love.
It was directed by Nabil Elderkin, who first introduced Legend to Teigen 14 years ago on the set of his video for Stereo. They tied the knot seven years later in Italy.
Teigen later confirmed she is expecting on Instagram - in her own very blunt way - showing off her growing bump and writing: "Look at this third baby s***. What? Oh my god."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Known for her honest social media posts, Teigen has previously shared photos of her breastfeeding her daughter Luna, in a bid to destigmatise and normalise natural nursing.
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She also shared a photo of her son, Miles, when he was six-months old wearing a helmet to correct flat-head syndrome, promoting awareness of the common condition.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
According to the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) head-shaping helmets help to fix plagiocephaly, a condition that occurs from a baby's sleep position and results in a misshapen or flat head. However, here in the UK, the NHS does not recommend helmets due to lack of evidence that they work.
Teigen has spoken openly about her past battles with post-natal depression.
The couple haven't revealed the baby's due date, but it seems likely they will be welcoming the new addition to their family in early 2021.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--Donald Trump pays visit to 'very ill' brother in hospital

Donald Trump 's younger brother has been admitted to hospital where he is said to be `` very ill '' .
President Trump , 74 , paid a visit to his brother Robert at the New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Centre in Manhattan on Friday .
He wore a face mask during the visit .
Robert Trump 's condition and the date of when he was admitted to hospital were not disclosed by the White House or the president .
In a tweet , the US president wrote : `` Just landed in New York to see my brother , Robert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on November 3rd .
We 're going to Reduce Taxes , Increase Law Enforcement , and bring it back BIG TIME ! ''
He said earlier on Friday : `` I have a wonderful brother , we 've had a great relationship from day one .
`` He 's in hospital right now but hopefully he 'll be alright .
Speaking about the president , the official said : `` He has a very good relationship with his brother and his brother is very special to him . ''
Robert Trump , 72 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in June in the neurosciences intensive care unit at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan .
After he came out of hospital he sued his and the president 's niece Mary Trump over her plan to publish a book about the Trump family .
However , Robert failed in several court actions to stop publication of the book which is called Too Much And Never Enough : How My Family Created The World 's Most Dangerous Man .
Robert argued that Mary Trump had violated a non-disclosure agreement she signed with him , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeals court judge Maryanne Trump Barry .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mary Trump and her brother allegedly signed the agreement with their uncles and aunt over their share of the estate of Fred Trump Senior , the president and Robert Trump 's dad , who was also the father of Mary 's dad , the late Fred Trump Junior .

Donald Trump's younger brother has been admitted to hospital where he is said to be "very ill".
President Trump, 74, paid a visit to his brother Robert at the New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Centre in Manhattan on Friday.
He wore a face mask during the visit.
Image: Robert Trump, pictured hugging Donald in 2016, has been admitted to hospital
Image: Robert Trump (L) with his ex-wife, Blaine Trump, with Ivana Trump and Donald Trump when they were younger
Robert Trump's condition and the date of when he was admitted to hospital were not disclosed by the White House or the president.
In a tweet, the US president wrote: "Just landed in New York to see my brother, Robert. We're going for New York on November 3rd. We're going to Reduce Taxes, Increase Law Enforcement, and bring it back BIG TIME!"
He said earlier on Friday: "I have a wonderful brother, we've had a great relationship from day one.
"He's in hospital right now but hopefully he'll be alright.
"He's having a hard time."
Speaking about the president, the official said: "He has a very good relationship with his brother and his brother is very special to him."
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Robert Trump, 71, reportedly spent at least 10 days in June in the neurosciences intensive care unit at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.
After he came out of hospital he sued his and the president's niece Mary Trump over her plan to publish a book about the Trump family.
However, Robert failed in several court actions to stop publication of the book which is called Too Much And Never Enough: How My Family Created The World's Most Dangerous Man.
Robert argued that Mary Trump had violated a non-disclosure agreement she signed with him, the president and their sister, retired federal appeals court judge Maryanne Trump Barry.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Mary Trump and her brother allegedly signed the agreement with their uncles and aunt over their share of the estate of Fred Trump Senior, the president and Robert Trump's dad, who was also the father of Mary's dad, the late Fred Trump Junior.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--R Kelly manager charged with cinema shooting threat that halted documentary screening

R Kelly 's manager has been charged with threatening to open fire on a New York cinema - forcing an evacuation and police to cancel the screening of a documentary alleging the singer sexually abused women and girls .
Donnell Russell was arrested before being charged with conspiracy and threatening physical harm by interstate communication over the incident .
The 45-year-old from Chicago appeared remotely from Los Angeles before a magistrate judge in Manhattan .
He was allowed to remain free on $ 75,000 dollars ( £57,000 ) bail .
Authorities say threats by Russell in December 2018 forced police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ R Kelly series at the NeueHouse Madison Square as a precaution , despite them having determined there was no imminent threat .
Acting US attorney Audrey Strauss said a number of the Grammy award-winning R & B singer 's accusers were to attend the screening .
`` Threats of gun violence aimed at intimidating and silencing victims of sexual abuse are unlawful as well as unacceptable , '' she said in a statement .
The head of New York 's FBI office , William F Sweeney Jr , said it `` defies logic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here could stop victims from speaking about their alleged abuse '' .
He added that although Russell succeeded in shutting down that screening , he had failed to silence the women in the film .
`` Each and every day , we do everything in our power to make sure victims of sexual abuse have the opportunity to be heard , and will continue to do so regardless of those who allegedly use violence as a means to stop them , '' he said .
It comes after Russell was charged earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her mother after the unidentified woman filed a lawsuit against the singer .
Officials allege he sent a letter to the woman 's lawyer with cropped nude photographs of her , before sending her a text warning : `` Pull the plug or you will be exposed . ''
Kelly is being held in a Chicago jail awaiting multiple trials in Illinois , Minnesota and New York on dozens of state and federal sex crime charges .
The charges range from sexual assault to leading a racketeering scheme aimed at supplying himself with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having unprotected sex with a minor in 2015 without telling her he had herpes .

R Kelly's manager has been charged with threatening to open fire on a New York cinema - forcing an evacuation and police to cancel the screening of a documentary alleging the singer sexually abused women and girls.
Donnell Russell was arrested before being charged with conspiracy and threatening physical harm by interstate communication over the incident.
The 45-year-old from Chicago appeared remotely from Los Angeles before a magistrate judge in Manhattan.
He was allowed to remain free on $75,000 dollars (£57,000) bail.
Authorities say threats by Russell in December 2018 forced police to halt a screening of the Surviving R Kelly series at the NeueHouse Madison Square as a precaution, despite them having determined there was no imminent threat.
Acting US attorney Audrey Strauss said a number of the Grammy award-winning R&B singer's accusers were to attend the screening.
"Threats of gun violence aimed at intimidating and silencing victims of sexual abuse are unlawful as well as unacceptable," she said in a statement.
The head of New York's FBI office, William F Sweeney Jr, said it "defies logic that a threat like the one alleged here could stop victims from speaking about their alleged abuse".
He added that although Russell succeeded in shutting down that screening, he had failed to silence the women in the film.
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Image: The screening of the Lifetime/NeueHouse Luminaries series 'Surviving R Kelly' before the evacuation took place
"Each and every day, we do everything in our power to make sure victims of sexual abuse have the opportunity to be heard, and will continue to do so regardless of those who allegedly use violence as a means to stop them," he said.
It comes after Russell was charged earlier this week with harassing a Kelly accuser and her mother after the unidentified woman filed a lawsuit against the singer.
Officials allege he sent a letter to the woman's lawyer with cropped nude photographs of her, before sending her a text warning: "Pull the plug or you will be exposed."
Kelly is being held in a Chicago jail awaiting multiple trials in Illinois, Minnesota and New York on dozens of state and federal sex crime charges.
The charges range from sexual assault to leading a racketeering scheme aimed at supplying himself with girls. He is also accused of having unprotected sex with a minor in 2015 without telling her he had herpes.


skynewsus--2020-08-14--'A little disrespected': Trump adviser and Marge Simpson in Twitter spat

A Twitter fight has broken out between Donald Trump 's campaign adviser and the fictional character Marge Simpson .
The war of words kicked off when Jenna Ellis , an adviser and lawyer to the US president , tweeted that newly-appointed Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris sounded like the cartoon housewife .
`` Kamala sounds like Marge Simpson , '' she wrote , prompting a backlash from Democrat supporters .
In a video posted on The Simpsons ' official Twitter account , the cartoon character - who is voiced by Julie Kavner - said she felt `` disrespected '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't get into politics , but the president 's senior adviser Jenna Ellis just said Kamala Harris sounds like me , '' the character said , explaining that Lisa , her daughter on the show , told her , `` she does n't mean it as a compliment '' .
`` As an ordinary suburban housewife , I 'm starting to feel a little disrespected , '' she said .
`` I teach my children not to name-call , Jenna . ''
She added : `` I was gon na say I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afraid they 'd bleep it . ''
Ms Ellis , who has repeatedly criticised mail-in voting , hit back : `` Marge is probably going to vote Democrat ... by mail . ''
Ms Harris was announced as Joe Biden 's running mate earlier this week and has since been subject to numerous attacks from her rivals .
In her first speech as vice presidential candidate , she was highly critical of Mr Trump and said he `` cares more about himself than the people who elected him '' .
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The Simpsons has previously taken aim at Mr Trump , appearing to endorse Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential election .
In a spoof video , it showed a cartoon version of Mr Trump with a book titled Great Speeches by A Hitler on his bed and a photograph on his wall apparently showing his eldest sons , Eric and Donald Junior , holding a dead cheetah .

A Twitter fight has broken out between Donald Trump's campaign adviser and the fictional character Marge Simpson.
The war of words kicked off when Jenna Ellis, an adviser and lawyer to the US president, tweeted that newly-appointed Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris sounded like the cartoon housewife.
"Kamala sounds like Marge Simpson," she wrote, prompting a backlash from Democrat supporters.
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In a video posted on The Simpsons' official Twitter account, the cartoon character - who is voiced by Julie Kavner - said she felt "disrespected" by the comparison.
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"I usually don't get into politics, but the president's senior adviser Jenna Ellis just said Kamala Harris sounds like me," the character said, explaining that Lisa, her daughter on the show, told her, "she doesn't mean it as a compliment".
"As an ordinary suburban housewife, I'm starting to feel a little disrespected," she said.
"I teach my children not to name-call, Jenna."
She added: "I was gonna say I'm p***** off, but I'm afraid they'd bleep it."
Ms Ellis, who has repeatedly criticised mail-in voting, hit back: "Marge is probably going to vote Democrat... by mail."
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Image: Kamala Harris has been selected as Joe Biden's running mate
Ms Harris was announced as Joe Biden's running mate earlier this week and has since been subject to numerous attacks from her rivals.
In her first speech as vice presidential candidate, she was highly critical of Mr Trump and said he "cares more about himself than the people who elected him".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The Simpsons has previously taken aim at Mr Trump, appearing to endorse Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential election.
In a spoof video, it showed a cartoon version of Mr Trump with a book titled Great Speeches by A Hitler on his bed and a photograph on his wall apparently showing his eldest sons, Eric and Donald Junior, holding a dead cheetah.


skynewsus--2020-08-15--US allows killing of sea lions because they're eating struggling Northwest salmon

Wildlife managers in some parts of the US have been given permission to start killing hundreds of sea lions in a bid to protect salmon and steelhead trout .
The marine mammals have been feasting on the migrating fish in the Columbia River basin where they bottleneck at dams or where they head up tributaries to spawn .
Shaun Clements , senior policy analyst for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife , said : `` These are places where the fish are really vulnerable .
`` We have to manage this so the fish can get through to spawn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states of Washington , Oregon and Idaho and several Native American tribes to kill 540 California sea lions and 176 Steller sea lions , from Portland to the McNary Dam upriver , as well as in several tributaries .
It is the first time they have been allowed to kill the much larger Steller sea lions .
Wildlife officials have faced a long-running conundrum over pitting the mammals , whose populations are healthy , against protected fish runs .
Columbia River salmon are also a key food source for the Pacific Northwest 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say are at risk of extinction if they ca n't access more food .
Authorities have tried a number of other methods to deter the sea lions over the years , including traps , rubber bullets and explosives , with no success .
The sea lions would return days after being relocated hundreds of miles away .
The Port of Astoria in Oregon even tried a fake , motorised orca made of fiberglass in a futile effort to keep them off its docks .
And around 13 years ago , authorities began killing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Columbia River under restrictions that required them to first document each targeted animal in the area five times , observe it eating salmon and wait for it to enter a trap .
Some 238 have been killed there .
Now , wildlife officials will be able to tranquilise , capture or trap any sea lions in the area , before bringing them to another location to give them a lethal injection .
The permit forbids them from shooting the mammals .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sharon Young , senior strategist for marine wildlife at the Humane Society , called the sea lions the least of the salmon 's problems .
She said that fishing , competition from hatchery fish and habitat loss , including dams and culverts that block their passage or raise water temperatures , are much more of a threat .
`` Killing the sea lions is n't going to address any of that , '' she said .
`` It is only going to distract from what they are n't doing to address the real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing sea lions for nothing . ''

Wildlife managers in some parts of the US have been given permission to start killing hundreds of sea lions in a bid to protect salmon and steelhead trout.
The marine mammals have been feasting on the migrating fish in the Columbia River basin where they bottleneck at dams or where they head up tributaries to spawn.
Shaun Clements, senior policy analyst for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, said: "These are places where the fish are really vulnerable.
"We have to manage this so the fish can get through to spawn."
The new permit allows the states of Washington, Oregon and Idaho and several Native American tribes to kill 540 California sea lions and 176 Steller sea lions, from Portland to the McNary Dam upriver, as well as in several tributaries.
It is the first time they have been allowed to kill the much larger Steller sea lions.
Wildlife officials have faced a long-running conundrum over pitting the mammals, whose populations are healthy, against protected fish runs.
Columbia River salmon are also a key food source for the Pacific Northwest's endangered population of orcas, which scientists say are at risk of extinction if they can't access more food.
Authorities have tried a number of other methods to deter the sea lions over the years, including traps, rubber bullets and explosives, with no success. The sea lions would return days after being relocated hundreds of miles away.
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The Port of Astoria in Oregon even tried a fake, motorised orca made of fiberglass in a futile effort to keep them off its docks.
And around 13 years ago, authorities began killing some sea lions at the Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River under restrictions that required them to first document each targeted animal in the area five times, observe it eating salmon and wait for it to enter a trap. Some 238 have been killed there.
Now, wildlife officials will be able to tranquilise, capture or trap any sea lions in the area, before bringing them to another location to give them a lethal injection. The permit forbids them from shooting the mammals.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Sharon Young, senior strategist for marine wildlife at the Humane Society, called the sea lions the least of the salmon's problems.
She said that fishing, competition from hatchery fish and habitat loss, including dams and culverts that block their passage or raise water temperatures, are much more of a threat.
"Killing the sea lions isn't going to address any of that," she said.
"It is only going to distract from what they aren't doing to address the real problems salmon are facing. You're killing sea lions for nothing."


skynewsus--2020-08-14--Trump's adviser mocks Marge Simpson. Marge Simpson responds


skynewsus--2020-08-15--Meghan criticises media for choosing 'salacious instead of truthful'

The Duchess of Sussex has criticised the `` toxicity '' of some media attention which she said uses `` salacious '' stories instead of truthful ones .
Meghan earlier launched a legal battle over articles published in the MailOnline and Mail On Sunday , claiming they breached her privacy after they published parts of a letter written to her estranged father .
Speaking at a virtual event organised by non-profit newsroom The 19th , she said : `` There 's so much toxicity out there in what 's being referred to , my husband and I talk about it often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That is what is monetisable right now when you 're looking at the digital space and media .
`` So if you are just trying to grab someone 's attention and keep it you 're going for something salacious versus something truthful . ''
The duchess said getting to a place where stories are told `` through a compassionate or empathetic lens '' will `` help bind people as a community '' .
She added : `` You want to have trust in journalism and you want to have trust in what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's fact .
`` We have become so , sadly , comfortable with the idea that we are just getting all this stuff and it becomes noise as opposed to truth and accurate journalism . ''
Meghan also said it was `` devastating '' to return to the US with her husband Prince Harry and see the `` state of affairs '' it was in .
The couple moved from Canada to the US earlier this year and are said to have bought an £11m home in the Californian celebrity hotspot of Santa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home country , Meghan said : `` It was so sad to see where our country was in that moment .
`` And if there 's any silver lining in that I would say that in the weeks that were happening after the murder of George Floyd , in the peaceful protests you were seeing , in the voices that were coming out , in the way that people were actually owning their role and acknowledging their role that they played , either actively or passively , in the discrimination of other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It shifted from sadness to a feeling of absolute inspiration because I can see that the tide is turning . ''
She said she is now looking forward to `` using my voice in a way I have n't been able to of late '' .
Meghan and Harry announced earlier this year that they would be distancing themselves from royal life and becoming financially independent .
They are no longer working members of the monarchy and are no longer known as HRH .

The Duchess of Sussex has criticised the "toxicity" of some media attention which she said uses "salacious" stories instead of truthful ones.
Meghan earlier launched a legal battle over articles published in the MailOnline and Mail On Sunday, claiming they breached her privacy after they published parts of a letter written to her estranged father.
Speaking at a virtual event organised by non-profit newsroom The 19th, she said: "There's so much toxicity out there in what's being referred to, my husband and I talk about it often, this economy for attention.
"That is what is monetisable right now when you're looking at the digital space and media.
"So if you are just trying to grab someone's attention and keep it you're going for something salacious versus something truthful."
The duchess said getting to a place where stories are told "through a compassionate or empathetic lens" will "help bind people as a community".
She added: "You want to have trust in journalism and you want to have trust in what you are reading in the hope that it's fact.
"We have become so, sadly, comfortable with the idea that we are just getting all this stuff and it becomes noise as opposed to truth and accurate journalism."
Meghan also said it was "devastating" to return to the US with her husband Prince Harry and see the "state of affairs" it was in.
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Image: Meghan and Harry have moved to the US
The couple moved from Canada to the US earlier this year and are said to have bought an £11m home in the Californian celebrity hotspot of Santa Barbara.
Speaking about returning to her home country, Meghan said: "It was so sad to see where our country was in that moment.
"And if there's any silver lining in that I would say that in the weeks that were happening after the murder of George Floyd, in the peaceful protests you were seeing, in the voices that were coming out, in the way that people were actually owning their role and acknowledging their role that they played, either actively or passively, in the discrimination of other people, specifically of the black community.
Image: The duchess says she is looking forward to being able to use her voice
"It shifted from sadness to a feeling of absolute inspiration because I can see that the tide is turning."
She said she is now looking forward to "using my voice in a way I haven't been able to of late".
Meghan and Harry announced earlier this year that they would be distancing themselves from royal life and becoming financially independent.
They are no longer working members of the monarchy and are no longer known as HRH.