China threat fuels push for more B-21 bombers: US Air Force

IANS | May 14, 2026 9:00 AM

Washington, May 14 (IANS) Senior US Air Force officials told lawmakers that the rapidly evolving threat from China is forcing the Pentagon to reassess whether the planned fleet of 100 B-21 bombers will be enough, as Congress pressed the military on ageing aircraft, tanker vulnerabilities and drone threats.

JD Vance announces major crackdown on healthcare fraud

IANS | May 14, 2026 8:43 AM

Washington, May 14 (IANS) Vice President J.D. Vance announced a sweeping crackdown on alleged Medicaid and Medicare fraud, accusing several Democratic-led states -- particularly California, New York and Hawaii -- of failing to police abuse in federally funded healthcare programmes.

Trump faces pressure to confront China on rights, trade ahead of meeting with Xi

IANS | May 14, 2026 8:20 AM

Washington, May 14 (IANS) US lawmakers from both parties intensified pressure on President Donald Trump ahead of his summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, urging him to confront Beijing on issues ranging from North Korean refugees and political prisoners to trade barriers, fentanyl and American manufacturing.

US warns robot fighters may surpass human pilots

IANS | May 14, 2026 8:12 AM

Washington, May 14 (IANS) A top US Air Force official warned lawmakers that autonomous fighter aircraft could eventually outperform human pilots, reflecting growing Pentagon concerns over the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence-driven warfare.