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June 07, 2019
The Trump administration has announced new steps to further restrict Americans’ travel to Cuba, including banning group tours and cruise ship stops to the island nation.The changes are meant to tighten the economic pressure on the Cuban government, which Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross called “one of our historically most aggressive adversaries.
Meanwhile, Mr. Trump declared Wednesday evening on Twitter that “not nearly enough” progress had been made and warned that “if no agreement is reached, Tariffs at the 5% level will begin on Monday, with monthly increases as per schedule.” New figures released Wednesday showed that illegal border crossings have risen to a seven-year high, underscoring the roots of the president’s rage.
Finally, at a press conference following private talks at Downing Street, both Trump and May underscored their commitment to a bilateral trade deal after the UK leaves the European Union, which is now slated to happen in October.”There is tremendous potential in that trade deal, I say probably two and even three times what we’re doing right now,” Trump said.
May 31, 2019
The importance of China’s rare earths to U.S. industries is one of many examples of how the two countries’ tech industries have grown intertwined over the years — and why the escalating tension has experts concerned about the long-term impact of an economic decoupling.
Meanwhile, Senior White House advisor Jared Kushner is leading a U.S. delegation to the Middle East in an attempt to build support for the Trump administration’s long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan—at least the economic part of it
Finally, the U.S. had a “large trade deficit” of $67.6 billion in goods with Japan in 2018, according to the office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and Trump has indicated he wants a a substantial reduction in the trade imbalance between the countries.Washington and Tokyo, led by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, have been wrangling over tariffs on automobiles and agricultural products for months.
Read on!
May 24, 2019
Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan Tuesday credited the deployment of US military weaponry with preventing potential attacks by Iran or its proxies in the Middle East. “We have put on hold the potential for attacks on Americans” by Iran or its allies, he told reporters at the Pentagon.”I just hope Iran is listening,” Shanahan added. “We’re in the region to address many things but it is not to go to a war with Iran.”
Meanwhile, tension between the U.S. and Russia remains high, and such aerial encounters have not been uncommon in recent years. NORAD said it has “intercepted an average of approximately six to seven Russian sorties entering its ADIZ since Russia resumed long range aviation patrols in 2007.”
Finally, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to Tokyo on Saturday as the first foreign leader to meet newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito. This unique honor caps off Abe’s campaign to develop a close personal rapport with President Trump thus deepening ties with the United States.
May 17, 2019
President Trump lays out new immigration plan – U.S. bolsters partnership with France to counter terrorist radicalization and recruitment – Ken Langone on U.S. and China trade
President Trump’s new immigration plan will shift to a more merit-based system prioritizing high-skilled workers would mark a dramatic departure from the nation’s largely family-based approach, which officials said gives roughly 66% of green cards to those with family ties and only 12% based on skills.
Meanwhile, the attacks in Marseille, New York, Nice, Orlando, Paris, San Bernardino, and Strasbourg over the past four years are examples of how lethal even one or a few determined individuals can be. Exchanges between France and the United States on countering radicalization and terrorist recruitment remain timely and important – for all of our national security.”
Finally, the Trump administration is attempting to strike a trade deal with China to end the escalating conflict. The world’s two largest economies increased tariffs on one another in recent days, with the U.S. making the first move by increasing duties on $200 billion worth of Chinese products from 10% to 25%. The tactic amplified a fight that has rattled financial markets and threatened to drag on the global economy.
May 10, 2019
President Trump has raised the already high stakes of this week’s talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators as he seeks to seal an agreement he can brandish on the campaign trail. The push to bring the talks with China to a conclusion comes as his administration gears up for a difficult fight in Congress over its new North American trade deal.
Meanwhile, speaking in London, Secretary of State Pompeo argued that China posed such a range of economic and security threats that the world now faced “a new kind of challenge, an authoritarian regime that’s integrated economically into the West.”
Finally, Pompeo had been scheduled to promote the Trump administration’s Arctic policies in Greenland on Thursday, following a tour of Europe.The Greenland stop was Pompeo’s second cancellation of the trip, following his earlier pullout of a stop in Germany to attend a meeting in Baghdad with Iraqi leaders on Tuesday.
May 3rd, 2019
U.S. Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, along with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, held a day of discussions with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, aimed at ending a trade war. The talks are to resume next week in Washington, where some observers say a deal announcement is possible.
Meanwhile, President Trump threatened tuesday to impose a “full and complete embargo” and more economic sanctions on Cuba if that government does not end what Trump called deadly intervention in Venezuela, where soldiers and opposition forces clashed in the streets.
Finally, after a 90-minute Oval Office meeting to discuss a potential infrastructure bill, both President Trump and Democrats gushed about what may have been their first point of agreement this year, on a plan to spend $2 trillion to repair crumbling roads and bridges.
April 26, 2019
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the United States will end all exceptions for countries currently purchasing oil from Iran. The secretary also stated ” Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and other oil-producing countries are committed to ensuring that global oil markets remain adequately supplied,”
Meanwhile, the White House confirmed President Trump offical state visit to the U.K. which will reaffirm the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. The President will also attend a ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day.
Finally, FBI agents and U.S. military personnel have arrived in Sri Lanka to assist the investigation into a series of bombings at churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday that killed more than 350 and injured 500, the U.S. ambassador to Sri Lanka said.
April 19, 2019
Ivanka Trump spoke on the last day of her four-day trip to Ethiopia and Ivory Coast, which has featured a mix of carefully choreographed diplomacy and visits to local business ventures as she advances a White House program to give an economic boost to women in the developing world
Meanwhile, at a recent meeting of ministers and disaster management officials from the United States and 18 Caribbean countries a new ‘US-Caribbean Resilience Partnership’ was officially launched. The US-Caribbean Resilience Partnership is not limited to improving resilience to natural disasters but also involves civil-military training and more.
Finally, earlier this year Carter sent Trump a letter with some advice about managing the U.S.-China relationship. Carter oversaw the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries 40 years ago.On Saturday evening, Trump called Carter to talk about it.
April 12, 2019
The Trump administration is designating Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, taking an unprecedented step as it seems to increase pressure on Iran’s regime.
Meanwhile, the US economy is actually recording the lowest rate of layoffs and firings since the federal government began tracking job turnover two decades ago. Just look at how much has changed since the 2007 recession.
Finally, The U.S. and China have agreed to open “enforcement offices” as a way to make sure each side lives up to the terms of a trade deal still under negotiation, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said Wednesday.
April 05, 2019
In the past year, U.S. pressure has countered Iran’s grand strategy to spread its outlaw, expansionist regime. By reducing the threats posed by Iran in the region, there’s hope to resolve many conflicts.
After two years of playing coy, the Trump administration is reportedly finally ready to unveil its plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace. The plan’s details remain confidential, but if it is anything like President Trump’s moves so far on the Israeli-Palestinian issue, it will be bold.
Finally, Americans are the world’s most generous contributors to humanitarian assistance — not just with dollars, but with human capital. Thousands of Americans work across the globe in international humanitarian organizations, responding to crises, ensuring access to life-saving necessities, and protecting the most vulnerable populations.
March 29, 2019
This week, both the Obama and Trump administrations can take credit. President Barack Obama, whose withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq created a vacuum for the Islamic State to fill, launched the multinational anti-ISIS campaign, and President Donald Trump continued and accelerated it.
Meanwhile, the U.S. and its allies in Europe could agree at an upcoming NATO meeting to provide more support to Ukraine in its efforts to resist Russian aggression in the region, America’s top diplomat said Wednesday.
Finally, Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Brandon Lipps speaks on the importance of the WIC program as a gateway to good health and self-sufficiency for many Americans.
March 22, 2019
This week, President Trump visited the tank factory in in Lima Ohio expressing his admiration and appreciation for its workers while also announcing an additional 400 new jobs at the manufacturing facility.
High-ranking U.S. delegation will travel to Beijing next week to resume negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing trade war between the world’s two leading economies.
U.S. prosecutors are looking into the development of Boeing’s 737 Max jets, a person briefed on the matter revealed Monday, the same day French aviation investigators concluded there were “clear similarities” in the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines Max 8 last week and a Lion Air jet in October.
March 15, 2019
This week, the Department of State released the 2018 Human Rights Report. The Human Rights Reports are essential to the advancement of universal human dignity around the world.
The United States will use its “influence and power to move every nation towards better, more consistent human rights practices,” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.
Pompeo said he hoped this year’s report would “cause oppressive regimes to honor human rights in places where voices are often silenced, and where deep yearnings for tolerance and respect have for too long gone unfulfilled.”
The United States remains steadfastly committed to promoting and protecting human rights as integral elements of our foreign policy.
March 08, 2019
American farmers are selling more of their high-quality products to the rest of the world than ever before in the history of U.S. agriculture.
For the first time in 13 years, the U.S. economy reached 3 percent growth in 2018 thanks to President Trump’s policies. With a booming economy, the United States is the perfect place for any UK business looking to invest and grow internationally.
March 01, 2019
Vice President Mike Pence, in his remarks to the Lima Group in Colombia, told all Venezuelan citizens that the United States is with them “100 percent.” The Vice President strongly criticized former President Nicolas Maduro for turning away humanitarian aid at the border and announced nearly $56 million in additional humanitarian assistance to countries supporting the regional response to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela.
Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan said “secure and resilient 5G telecommunications is vital to the security and prosperity of the United States” and called on allies to rely on “robust, trusted, and secure next-generation communications systems.”
Figures from the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show growing numbers of foreign visitors in the United States. In 2017, the most recent year reported, approximately 76.9 million visitors arrived in the U.S., 4.5 million of which from the United Kingdom.
February 22, 2019
Vice President Mike Pence delivered a speech on U.S. foreign policy, the American commitment to Europe, Russia, and ongoing threats from Iran at the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany. The Vice President reminded European leaders that “America first” does not mean “America alone.”
Deputy U.S. Trade Representative C.J. Mahoney and UK Ambassador to the United States Kim Darroch signed two mutual recognition agreements, covering U.S. exports to the UK of more than $5 billion in 2018, on February 14, 2019. These agreements will ensure that trade in certain products will not be disrupted when the United Kingdom leaves the European Union.
Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo met with the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini in Brussels, as part of a five-day trip to Europe including visits to Budapest, Bratislava, Warsaw, and Reykjavik. Secretary Pompeo and Mogherini discussed U.S.-EU cooperation on a range of key issues.
February 15, 2019
President Donald J. Trump launched the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative (W-GDP), which seeks to reach 50 million women in the developing world by 2025. The initiative seeks to enable women to prosper in the workforce, jumpstart women’s successes as entrepreneurs, and create an enabling environment for women to fully participate in the economy.
The Ministerial to Promote a Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East, co-hosted by the United States and Poland, was an opportunity for countries to share their perspective on the wide-ranging issues affecting the region and how to effectively cooperate to address them.
The Department of Defense published its Artificial Intelligence Strategy in concert with President Trump’s Executive Order on Maintaining American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence. The strategy directs the United States to adopt AI to maintain its strategic position to prevail on future battlefields and safeguard a free and open international order.
February 08, 2019
On February 5, President Donald J. Trump delivered his second State of the Union Address to Congress. In his speech, the President rejected the “politics of revenge, resistance, and retribution” and instead called for “cooperation, compromise, and the common good.”
At the University of Illinois, researchers developed a method to produce crops in greater abundance. Making photosynthesis more efficient, the researchers managed to grow tobacco plants 40 percent larger in a field test. Eventually, they hope to extend their method to soybeans, rice, potato, and other crops.
Ahead of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, the Office of the United States Trade Representative signed two continuity agreements, covering wine and spirits, with the UK to guarantee no disruption in trade of those products.
February 01, 2019
The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed two indictments against Chinese telecommunications company Huawei with “theft of trade secrets conspiracy, attempted theft of trade secrets, seven counts of wire fraud, and one count of obstruction of justice,” as well as financial fraud. Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker promised that the Department of Justice will protect the integrity of the American economy from “criminals, no matter how powerful or influential they are.”
On January 23, President Donald J. Trump recognized Juan Guaido as the Interim President of Venezuela, following the Venezuelan National Assembly constitutional declaration of Nicolas Maduro as illegitimate. In his Executive Order, President Trump cited human rights violations and other abuses of power and curtailments of political freedom.
In Washington, Director of National Intelligence Daniel R. Coats presented the Worldwide Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community to the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Director Coats warned that “China and Russia seek to expand their global influence, they are eroding once well established security norms and increasing the risk of regional conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and East Asia.” The United States will continue to face a diverse set of threats, ranging from Iran’s adversarial behavior, to cyberthreats, and terrorism.
December 21, 2018
Holiday Magic Illuminates the White House
The U.S. Embassy wishes you all a happy festive season and a good n
ew year!
In anticipation of Christmas, First Lady Melania Trump decorated the White House with “American treasures” showcasing America’s heritage.
Last week, National Security Advisor John Bolton unveiled the United States’ new Africa strategy in a speech in Washington, D.C. The new approach will strengthen “independence, self-reliance and growth” and allow African nations to “remain independent in fact and not just in theory,” Bolton said.
The United States is also standing with our UK ally to ramp up pressure on Iran. Recently, American officials underscored the escalating threat of Iranian ballistic missiles, which are evidence of “state-sponsored, revolutionary terrorism.” Brian Hook, U.S. Special Representative for Iran, urged Iran to cease testing and proliferating missiles, a message echoed by Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo at the United Nations Security Council.
December 14, 2018
In the United Nations Security Council in New York, Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo underscored the United States’ determination to address Iran’s threat to international peace and security through their continued development and proliferation of ballistic missiles. Secretary Pompeo thanked the United Kingdom, France, and Germany for joining the U.S. in raising concerns about the Iranian regime’s activities.
U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue celebrated the opening of Morocco’s market for U.S. beef and beef products under the terms of the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA). “American beef is the best in the world, and once Moroccans get a taste of it, they’ll surely want more,” Secretary Perdue said.
Finally, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned three North Korean officials for their regime’s ongoing and serious human rights abuses and censorship. “These sanctions demonstrate the United States’ ongoing support for freedom of expression, and opposition to endemic censorship and human rights abuses,” said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin.
December 07, 2018
George Herbert Walker Bush, who served as the 41st president of the United States, died on November 30 at the age of 94 after a long and distinguished career in the service of his country. The nation paid its respects to President Bush on December 5 in a memorial service in Washington, D.C.
Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo set out the United States’ vision to remake the international order to serve the interests of the citizens of the U.S. and its allies, at a major speech at the German Marshall Fund in Washington, D.C. Secretary Pompeo declared that “America intends to lead.”
President Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto signed the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) at a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires. The trade deal, which will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), “changes the trade landscape forever,” President Trump said.
November 30, 2018
America is ready to get straight to work on an ambitious trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom. That was Ambassador Robert Wood Johnson’s message to the British people in an Op-Ed this week in The Times of London. Ambassador Johnson confirmed that the Trump Administration has notified the U.S. Congress of its intention to start negotiating as soon as possible. “If we seem enthusiastic, it’s because we are,” the Ambassador said.
Meanwhile, the United States will commemorate 15 years of saving lives through the U.S. global AIDS relief initiative on World AIDS Day on December 1. Initially created to provide lifesaving services in countries hardest hit by HIV/AIDS, the initiative is now active in 60 countries worldwide.
Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis concluded that “Russia cannot be counted on to keep its word” after it seized three Ukrainian ships in the Sea of Azov and blocking the Kerch Strait off the Crimean Peninsula in contravention of signed treaties and the Law of the Sea.
In Washington, Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo said “degrading U.S.-Saudi ties would be a grave mistake for the national security of the U.S. and its allies.” Secretary Pompeo highlighted the kingdom as a powerful force for stability in the Middle East.
Finally, Ambassador Johnson and Embassy staff enjoyed a delicious local treat – Eccles cakes from Lancashire in honor of Lancashire Day! Check out our video in our Post of the Week.
Edition of November 23, 2018
The U.S. Department of Treasury announced sanctions against nine targets in an international network through which the Iranian regime, together with Russian companies, provides millions of barrels of oil to the Syrian government. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the United States is “committed to imposing a financial toll on Iran, Russia, and others for their efforts to solidify Assad’s authoritarian rule, as well as disrupt the Iranian regime’s funding of terrorist organizations.”
Earlier this month, the fifth meeting of the U.S.-UK Trade and Investment Working Group and the third meeting of the U.S.-UK Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Dialogue took place.
NASA released an inspiring video setting out its goal to return to the Moon “to stay” and prepare “to go beyond.” NASA made clear that “after 60 years, we’re just getting started.”
Finally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture welcomed participants to a two-week horticulture training course at Ohio State University as part of its Cochran Fellowship Program. The program, names after former Republican U.S. Senator Thad Cochran of Mississippi, shares U.S. agricultural expertise with farmers around the world and has trained more than 18,000 agricultural professionals in over 126 countries.
Edition of November 16, 2018
Historic Firsts in U.S. Midterm Elections | Countering Iran’s Terror | U.S. Economy is #1
Last week’s midterm elections saw history-making firsts across the United States: a record-setting number of women elected to Congress, including its first female Native Americans and Muslims.
As President Trump has made clear, Iran is the world’s leading state sponsor of terror and the international community must exert maximum pressure on the regime to change its malign behavior. This week, Nathan Sales, the State Department’s ambassador-at-large and coordinator for counterterrorism, announced new measures that the U.S. Government is taking to counter Iran’s global terrorism.
Time to invest in the U.S.! Thanks to its vibrant entrepreneurial culture and capacity for innovation, the United States was named the world’s most competitive economy for the first time in a decade by the World Economic Forum.
Americans love Thanksgiving and all of the food that goes along with it. U.S. farmers and ranchers provide the building blocks we need to make all of those pumpkin spice lattes and traditional foods. Our deepest thanks and gratitude to the over 3.2 million American farm and ranch families, who work hard to bring us safe and delicious food every day.
Edition of November 09, 2018
The United States enacted the “toughest sanctions ever” on Iran on November 5. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stressed that this will “stop Iran from having the wealth and money that they need to continue to foment terror around the world.”
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced a joint effort by the United States and 12 other nations at the World Trade Organization to support policies enabling agricultural innovation. Secretary Perdue made it clear that “such technologies too often face regulatory roadblocks that are based on misinformation and political posturing” instead of a science-based approach.
Trident Juncture, the largest military exercise of its kind since the end of the Cold War, ended on November 7. The United States lead NATO allies and partners in a test of operational readiness that involved 65 ships, 250 aircraft, 10,000 vehicles, and 50,000 military personnel from 31 countries.
Edition of November 02, 2018
The United States calls on all parties to support UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths in finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in Yemen based on the agreed references.
The time is now for the cessation of hostilities, including missile and UAV strikes from Houthi-controlled areas into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Subsequently, Coalition air strikes must cease in all populated areas in Yemen.
Substantive consultations under the UN Special Envoy must commence this November in a third country to implement confidence-building measures to address the underlying issues of the conflict, the demilitarization of borders, and the concentration of all large weapons under international observation.
A cessation of hostilities and vigorous resumption of a political track will help ease the humanitarian crisis as well.
It is time to end this conflict, replace conflict with compromise, and allow the Yemeni people to heal through peace and reconstruction.
Edition of October 26, 2018
In May 2018, President Donald J. Trump reimposed sanctions on Iran for its malign conduct. The administration gave businesses around the world time to wind down their business in the country. As of midnight November 4, business must stop buying Iranian oil or be barred from doing business in the United States. The clock is ticking!
To help the victims left homeless by the earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia on September 28, the United States is sending an additional $3 million in aid. That raises U.S. contributions to nearly $11 million, including $6.7 through the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance, which has also dispatched disaster assistance teams to the region.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the signing of the Winning on Reducing Food Waste initiative. The initiative aims at improving coordination and communication across federal agencies attempting to better educate Americans on the impacts and importance of reducing food loss and waste.
Edition of October 19, 2018
U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer notified Congress this week that the United States intends to start official trade negotiations with Japan, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. Lighthizer said that the United States will continue to expand U.S. trade and investment and deliver “substantive results for American workers, farmers, ranchers, and businesses.”
Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, hosted the Counter Violent Extremist Organizations Chiefs of Defense Conference at Joint Base Andrews. Representatives from 83 countries, as well as the U.S. combatant commanders and commanders of counterterrorism operations around the world, attended the conference.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo affirmed that the “U.S.-Israel relationship is stronger today than it has ever been” and declared the country a model for the entire region. Secretary Pompeo made clear that the United States is “making a truly historic push for peace between Israel and the Palestinians.”
Edition of October 12, 2018
U.S. Navy Admiral James Foggo, the commander of NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command based in Italy, will command NATO’s upcoming Exercise Trident Juncture in Norway. Adm. Foggo said in a briefing at the Pentagon that the alliance will demonstrate its capabilities in its largest exercise since 2002. 45,000 personnel from 29 NATO countries will participate.
The United States Department of Agriculture announced a $181 million investment in 88 projects to build community infrastructure and facilities in 27 states. Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett said that infrastructure “is a foundation for quality of life and economic opportunity in small towns across.”
Finally, the State Department is supporting efforts to restore cultural sites in Egypt, Iraq, Syria, and Sri Lanka. Knox Thames, State Department Special Adviser for Religious Minorities, said the United States appreciates “the contributions of other cultures and other civilizations to world history.”
Edition of October 05, 2018
The United States, Canada, and Mexico agreed on a landmark trade deal that will benefit American farmers and workers and make trade between the three nations fairer. President Donald J. Trump hailed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) “historic news for our nation and indeed for the world.”
In Europe, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis met French President Emmanuel Macron and Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly to reaffirm the long-standing defense relationship of both countries. Chief Pentagon spokesperson Dana W. White said Secretary Mattis thanked France for their leadership and contributions in the fight against terrorism in the Levant and Sahel and reaffirmed that “both nations agreed NATO remains the cornerstone of European military security.”
Finally, the United States indicted seven officers of Russia’s military intelligence agency GRU for international hacking and related influence and disinformation operations. The charges were announced at a press conference by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John D. Demers, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania Scott W. Brady, FBI Deputy Assistant Director for Cyber Division, Eric Welling, and Director General Mark Flynn for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Edition of September 28, 2018
In New York, President Donald J. Trump addressed the 73rd session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. He told delegates that the United States will seek “peace without fear, hope without despair, and security without apology.”
In his speech, President Trump highlighted that he believes “strongly in energy security for ourselves and for our allies.” The United States have become the largest energy producer in the world, with American crude oil production surpassing Russia in the first time for two decades. The United States therefore “stands ready to export our abundant, affordable supply of oil, clean coal, and natural gas,” the President said in New York.
In other news, NASA is turning its eyes again to the age-old question whether humanity is alone in the universe. Beyond simply for biosignatures, NASA is exploring ways to locate “technosignatures,”which would allow scientists to infer whether life advanced enough to create technology exists beyond our solar system.
Edition of September 21, 2019
President Trump Strengthens National Biodefense | Protecting Elections Against Foreign Interference | USAID Helps Build Stronger Democratic Societies in Eastern Europe
President Donald J. Trump announced a new direction for the defense against biological threats. The newly released National Biodefense Strategy, together with a National Security Presidential Memorandum, will provide the new basis for protecting Americans effectively and efficiently.
President Trump has also made clear that the United States will not tolerate interference in its elections. Executive order 13848 imposes mandatory sanctions on foreign governments and individuals who interfere in U.S. elections and provide disinformation in the media and online.
At the same time, supporting a strong and vibrant civil society has been at the heart of USAID’s work in Eastern Europe and Eurasia for more than 25 years. Erin McCarthy takes a look at USAID’s transformative efforts in Ukraine, Georgia, and Serbia.
Edition of September 14, 2018
On Tuesday, the world commemorated the 17th anniversary of the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. In New York City, rural Pennsylvania, and in Virginia, three memorials are especially poignant reminders of the lives lost that day.
Stephen Biegun, the newly appointed U.S. Special Representative for North Korea, travels to South Korea, China, and Japan fromSeptember 10 to September 15 to meet his counterparts and advance diplomatic efforts to achieve the “final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea.”
NASA is pressing ahead on Gateway, the agency’s lunar outpost that will support human an robotic exploration operations in deep space, including Mars. NASA is seeking a partnership with private partners to develop components for Gateway.
Edition of September 07, 2018
The United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning the Salisbury attack. UK investigators concluded that members of the Russian military intelligence service carried out the attack using a chemical nerve agent.
In a press conference in New York City, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley made it clear that the United States will focus on UN Security Council reform during its presidency in September.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis met with their Indian counterparts in New Delhi to discuss the strategic partnership between the United States and India.
USAID’s Megan Hill had the opportunity to review the effectiveness of conservation enterprises, which provide income for the local population and protect the environment at the same time.
Edition of August 31, 2018
The Embassy’s flag is flying at half-staff this week to honor the life of Senator John S. McCain, who passed away August 25 after battling brain cancer. In the words of U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, “we have lost a man who steadfastly represented the best ideals of our country.” Senator McCain will be honored at a memorial service at Washington National Cathedral on Saturday, September 1.
On the first Monday in September, the United States honors the contributions of the American workforce to the prosperity of the nation. Find out here how typical Americans celebrate this day.
In India, USAID and the Department of State have helped to bring solar power to the country’s biggest railway station in New Delhi.
Finally, NASA’s Earth-observing research satellites have assisted humanitarian workers in Yemen by identifying potential outbreaks of life-threatening cholera and directing their efforts.
Edition of August 17, 2018
As we approach the U.S. midterm elections on November 6, we encourage all American citizens in the UK to register to vote and apply for an absentee ballot – find out more details here!
Four trillion dollars. That’s how much foreign businesses invested in the United States in 2017 – a new record. And the UK is the top investor in the U.S., which means more jobs and prosperity for both our countries.
Not only is business booming in America, entrepreneurs like Palestinian-American Ahmad Ashkar are making a global impact by helping refugees at the same time. We are inspired by Ahmed’s falafel business in Washington, DC, that donates meals for refugees for every meal sold. Creative solutions like this embody the American spirit!
Looking for a delicious meal this weekend? The New York Times’ Robert Draper recently experienced the restaurant revolution in London and provides a glowing review of the UK’s foodie scene.
Edition of August 10, 2018
This week President Donald J. Trump announced the reimposition of sanctions on Iran and said the United States is “fully committed to enforcing all our sanctions.” The administration is working with all parties to deny Iran all paths to a nuclear weapon.
In Bogota, a presidential delegation witnessed the inauguration of Colombia’s new president, Iván Duque Márquez, which “seals the emergence of Colombia as a strong democratic partner for the United States.”
In Washington, Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta presented the Department of Labor’s July 2018 Employment Situation report. Since the President’s election, 3.9 million jobs have been created.
Edition of August 05, 2018
This week in Honolulu, Vice President Mike Pence welcomed home the flag-draped remains of 55 U.S. servicemen who served in the Korean War.
In Washington, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo outlined his vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region at the Indo-Pacific Business Forum, hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Finally, NASA and its commercial partners Boeing and SpaceX are making significant progress to launch astronauts into space from American soil for the first time since the space shuttle’s retirement in 2011.
Edition of July 27, 2018
In Washington, President Donald J. Trump declared America “open for business” and said American-made products are a “global status of unrivaled excellence.” The President also made a “Pledge to America’s Workers” to create a national strategy to provide affordable and relevant training.
Meanwhile in California, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told a gathering of Iranian Americans at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library that he shared their hope to “one day see Iranians in Iran enjoying the same quality of life that Iranians in America enjoy.”
Finally, President Trump has delivered a big win on trade, reaching a deal with EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker to open a new phase in U.S.-EU trade relations in which both sides win and work together for global prosperity.
Edition of July 20, 2018
Happy Friday! President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump made their way to the United Kingdom last week to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May and Her Majesty the Queen after President Trump convinced European allies in Brussels to increase their commitment to NATO.
In a stunning example of public-private partnership, a team from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and American companies IBM and Nvidia Corporation built Summit, the world’s fastest supercomputer, at a federal laboratory in Tennessee.
And, on this day 49 years ago, NASA astronaut Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon after President Kennedy announced that the United States would put a man on the moon before the end of the decade.
Edition of June 28, 2018
Fourth of July at the White House – U.S. Committed to Mid-East Peace – Next Generation of Scientist
President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are gearing up to host the Fourth of July Celebration at the White House.
In other news, the White House Senior Advisor Jared Kushner and Special Reprsentative for International Negotiations Jason Greenblatt meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and regional tour demonstrates US commitment to peace in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, USAID attended the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) as a Special Award Organization to recognize students with innovative projects that could advance USAID’s ability to meet current and future development challenges. Over the last five years, USAID has provided honorable mention and monetary awards to 61 students.
Edition of June 21, 2018
Embassy Documentary – Iran Sanctions – Far East
The Embassy’s exclusive, behind-the-scenes documentary series “Inside the American Embassy” will air on Channel 4 starting Monday, June 25, at 10:00 p.m. – don’t miss it!
President Trump’s re-imposed sanctions on Iran are having an immediate impact as foreign companies are pulling back from doing business there.
In other news, the Pentagon said Operation Ulchi Freedom Guardian would not take place, while Washington and Pyongyang continue to discuss denuclearization following President Trump’s historic meeting with Kim Jong Un in Singapore last Tuesday.
Meanwhile, ten years ago the United States led the international community in recognizing via the UN Security Council that wartime rape is not just a human rights issue but a public health and security issue we cannot afford to ignore. The United States reaffirmed its committment towards this cause during the fourth International Day to Eliminate Sexual Violence.
Edition of June 07, 2018
Trump-Abe meet – Carbon Capture – Good news on Job Numbers
President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Abe met yesterday to discuss topics ranging from trade to North Korea ahead of the G7 summit in Canada.
The 240th Composite Supply Company is keeping it “so fresh and so clean clean” in Poland that ‘Outkast’ (Atlanta-based Hip Hop group) would be proud.
Did you know that carbon dioxide emissions can serve a useful purpose? The process of carbon capture is reducing dangerous pollution and increasing global oil production.
Edition of May 31, 2018
Memorial Day – Winfield House website – International Religious Freedom Report
President Trump honors fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice on Memorial Day.
After two years in the making we are proud to announce the launch of the Winfield House website that provides 3 D views of representational rooms and highlights the collection inside as well as shares the history of the house.
Finally, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo puts religious freedom at the heart of U.S. human rights agenda
Edition of May 25, 2018
Manchester One Year On – Job availability – China cuts car tariffs
In a recent Gallup poll 67% of Americans are feeling positive about job prospects under President Trump which is the highest percentage 17 years of Gallup polling.
US and China moves towards détente with China’s cuts to car tariffs.
Secretary of State Mike Pompep communicated his commitment to fight Russian meddling in 2018 congressional midterm US elections.
The United States provides the biggest international donation in the fight against Ebola in Congo.
Lastly, as an American child Mister Rogers taught us so much about friendship, honesty, and love but he also engaged kids about gun violence.
Edition of May 18, 2018
North Korea Summit – U.S. Embassy in Israel transition – President Trump’s Ramadan message – U.S. Armed Services Day
China has urged its ally North Korea to proceed with an historic summit between its leader, Kim Jong Un, and U.S. President Donald Trump.
In recognition of the historic transition of the U.S. Embassy in Israel’s official move from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, we take a look back at the 70 year friendship in photos.
President Trump delivered a heartfelt message to American Muslims to commemorate the holy month of Ramadan which is determined by the sighting of the new moon which began May 15, 2018.
Lastly, in honor of U.S. Armed Services Day this Saturday, we want to wish America’s oldest man and WWII veteran Richard Overton a happy birthday who turned 112 and shared some advice for life.
Edition of May 11, 2018
Ambassador Johnson Lays A Wreath on Islay for WW1 – President Trump Ends Flawed Iran Nuclear Deal – First Lady Melania Trump’s Initiative for Children
We kicked off the week with First Lady Melania Trump announcing her initiative BE BEST focused on three pillars: promoting well-being, managing social media use, and tackling opioid abuse to build a brighter future for our children and the nation.
President Trump ended U.S. participation in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal.
The President also proudly welcomed home three Americans released after capitivity by North Korea ahead of the June 12 summit between him and the North Korean Presdent Kim Jong Un.
Finally, check out this analysis of the sucesses and challenges of the Administration’s by, with, and through model to partner with local forces to achieve our national security objectives.
Edition of May 4, 2018
President Trump to Visit UK on July 13 – Ambassador Johnson Answers Your Questions Live on Twitter Next Week – 100-Year-Old American Flag Returns to Scotland
Happy Friday! The Eagle Express is back – every Friday morning, we’ll be bringing you the latest updates on U.S. foreign policy, interesting articles on global events by key thinkers and commentators, and news on what’s happening at the U.S. Embassy.
We hope you enjoy the content – please keep in touch and let us know what kind of articles and information you’d like to see.
This week, President Trump made his first visit to the State Department to officiate the swearing-in ceremony for the 70th Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who wants the State Department to get its “swagger back.”
After next week’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, career CIA officer Gina Haspel could make history by becoming the first female CIA director.
Courtesy of the Smithsonian, Old Glory has proudly returned home to the Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland in celebration of the honor, respect and fortitude its inhabitants displayed toward American servicemen 100 years ago during World War I.
The White House honors everyday Americans who acted in extraordinary ways. Although we are 125 days away from action on the gridiron, it doesn’t mean we can’t be excited and inspired by one-handed American football linebacker Shaquem Griffin.
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