For the first time in 40 years, American presidential inaugural ceremonies will not be held on the steps of the US Capitol but indoors. Amid the long-awaited colossal on January 20, the excitement seems to be fading away as the temperature is presumed to plummet on US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration day. As per reports, several of the day’s planned events have been moved to Capital One Arena in downtown, Washington DC - a sports venue that holds only 20,000 people. Taking to social media on January 17, Donald Trump announced that the arena would be open for those wishing to view his inauguration ceremony, which traditionally takes place in front of the US Capitol but will now take place inside the congressional complex. This will be an unprecedented event in forty years that the American presidential inaugural ceremonies will not be held on the steps of the US Capitol but indoors. The last time an inauguration was moved indoors because of the bitter cold was in 1985 for former Republican President Ronald Reagan's second swearing-in, when the afternoon wind chill fell into the range of minus 10 to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The forecast for Washington on Monday puts temperatures at the time of Trump's swearing-in at around 19 degrees Fahrenheit and will feel even colder with wind chill. The chilly winter has also forced organizers to scrap a planned parade down Pennsylvania Avenue of military regiments, school marching bands, floats and citizens’ groups which will now take place at Capital One. On the eve of the inauguration, Trump is set to hold a campaign-style "Make America Great Again Victory Rally" at the Capital One Arena. The developments raise a big question - Will only 20,000 people watch Donald Trump being crowned for the second time?
18 January,2025 03:25 PM IST
On January 15, 2025, President Joe Biden announced that a ceasefire and hostage deal had been reached between Israel and Hamas, ending more than 15 months of conflict. The agreement will take place in three stages, starting with a full ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of hostages, including Americans. Biden praised the diplomatic efforts behind the deal, emphasizing the support from Israel and the U.S. as well as the backing of a coalition of 20 countries. Biden expressed relief, saying, "Fighting in Gaza will stop, and soon the hostages will return home to their families.
16 January,2025 11:50 AM IST
The conflict in the Middle East is still ongoing, with no signs of stopping. The Israeli Defense Forces have almost destroyed all Iranian-backed groups. With the change in leadership in the U.S., Iran faces more pressure, as President Trump has pushed for tougher actions against Iran. Over the weekend, Iran held air defense exercises, which are part of a larger two-month military drill that began on January 4. These drills include practicing defense of important nuclear sites, like Natanz, from missile and drone attacks. Iran is also testing new missiles and drones. Iran has faced challenges in Lebanon and Syria, where Israeli airstrikes have targeted Hezbollah and Assad's regime is weakening.
13 January,2025 05:01 PM IST
At least 11 people have died due to the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Strong winds, known as the Santa Ana winds, temporarily died down, giving firefighters a brief break. However, these winds are expected to pick up again soon, making the situation more dangerous. On January 11, the Los Angeles Fire Department issued a mandatory evacuation for affected areas. The fires have also led to the arrest of 18 individuals for crimes like looting and identity theft. President Joe Biden has warned that the winds will remain a threat for the coming week and announced federal support to cover costs for protecting lives and property. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom for not signing a water restoration plan, which he claimed could have helped prevent the fires.
12 January,2025 12:37 PM IST
Amidst the raging wildfires in California that have led thousands to flee homes including the upscale areas of Los Angeles, on Jan 7, residents spoke out on the tragedy that put their lives in danger. The raging fire destroyed 2,921 acres of the Pacific Palisades area between the coastal towns of Santa Monica and Malibu. Currently, the fire is spreading to the Hollywood Hills, resulting in the evacuation of Hollywood residents, stars from Pacific Palisades. Several videos showed firefighters trying to contain the fire as it spread forward, with winds blowing up to 100 mph. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency and warned in a briefing that, “We are not out of danger”. President-Elect Donald Trump called California wildfires a 'true tragedy' and criticized Governor Newsom.
10 January,2025 01:31 PM IST
A fast-moving wildfire broke out in California on January 7, affecting areas like Los Angeles and the Pacific Palisades. The fire has already burned 2,921 acres between Santa Monica and Malibu and is now spreading toward the Hollywood Hills. Many people, including celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis, Mandy Moore, and Maria Shriver, had to evacuate their homes. Firefighters are battling the flames as strong winds of up to 100 mph make it harder to control. California's Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, warning that the danger is not over. President-Elect Donald Trump called the wildfires a "true tragedy" but also criticized Governor Newsom's response.
09 January,2025 05:35 PM IST
On January 8, President-elect Donald Trump visited the Capitol Rotunda to pay respects to the late President Jimmy Carter. This was his first visit to the US Capitol since the January 2021 Capitol Hill Riot, which happened after the contested 2020 election results. After honoring Carter at the Capitol, Trump is set to meet with Senate Republicans, who currently have a 53-47 majority in the Senate. Trump is also expected to attend Carter's funeral in Washington, D.C. on January 9. This visit comes as Trump prepares for his return to the White House, with his official inauguration as president scheduled for January 20. His visit highlights the significant moments during his transition period to the presidency.
09 January,2025 12:50 PM IST
After Justin Trudeau announced he would step down as Canada's Prime Minister, US President-elect Donald Trump emphasized his interest in acquiring Panama Canal, Greenland, and Canada. Trump suggested using "economic force" to convince Canada to join the US but ruled out military action. He repeatedly posted on social media offering Canada a chance to become the 51st state, using images of Canada with the American flag. In a post on January 6, Trump promised Canadians lower taxes, reduced tariffs, and enhanced security if they agreed to join the US. He also mocked Trudeau for his handling of illegal immigration and drug trafficking, offering Trudeau the symbolic title of "Governor of the Great State of Canada."
08 January,2025 03:32 PM IST
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party on January 6, according to The Globe and Mail, citing three sources. Although the exact time of the announcement isn't confirmed, it's expected to happen before a key national caucus meeting. It is unclear if Trudeau will leave immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new leader is chosen. Trudeau became Liberal leader in 2013 when the party was in trouble, having dropped to third place in the House of Commons. His resignation would leave the party without a permanent leader at a time when polls show the Liberals would lose badly to the Conservatives in an election.
06 January,2025 01:50 PM IST
The Namo Bharat trains have now arrived in Delhi, offering a new era of fast travel for the city. Passengers were impressed by the train's comfort, calling it a step up from the metro and a time-saver. As a warm gesture, each passenger was given a rose, making the experience special. A notable moment was the recognition of Anil Marwah, who had the honor of being part of the inaugural journey in both phases of the train's launch. The Namo Bharat trains are set to revolutionize travel in the National Capital, making commuting faster and more comfortable for everyone.
06 January,2025 11:30 AM ISTADVERTISEMENT
