A file image of Former U.S. President Barack Obama.
| Photo Credit: AP

President Donald Trump speaks in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on January 30, 2025.
| Photo Credit: AP

U.S. President Donald Trump — speaking as the bodies of 67 people were pulled from Washington’s Potomac River — launched an extraordinary political attack Thursday (January 30, 2025) blaming diversity hires for the midair collision between an airliner and a military helicopter.

The Republican confirmed the deaths of all those aboard both aircraft, and also cited pilot error on the helicopter in the nighttime crash. But he chiefly used a press conference to open fire at what he said were left-wing diversity practices under his Democratic predecessors Joe Biden and Barack Obama that he claimed kept out good employees at the Federal Aviation Administration.

“I put safety first. Obama, Biden and the Democrats put policy first,” Mr. Trump said. “They actually came out with a directive: ‘too white.’ And we want the people that are competent.”

As Mr. Trump spoke in the White House, police divers searched for more bodies in the water.

Wreckage of the Bombardier jet operated by an American Airlines subsidiary protruded from the river surface, surrounded by emergency vessels and diving teams. It had been carrying 64 people.

The Army Blackhawk helicopter, which had three soldiers aboard, was also in the river.

“We are now at a point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation,” Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly said. Twenty eight bodies had already been found.

The collision — the first major crash in the United States since 2009 when 49 people were killed near Buffalo, New York — occurred late evening on Wednesday as the airliner came into land at Reagan National Airport after a routine flight from Wichita, Kansas. 

Reagan National is a major airport located a short distance from downtown Washington, the White House and the Pentagon. The airspace is extremely busy, with civilian and military aircraf a constant presence.

Dramatic audio from air traffic controllers showed them repeatedly asking the helicopter if it had the passenger jet “in sight,” and then just before the crash telling it to “pass behind” the plane. 

Washington plane crash LIVE updates

Trump politicizes crash

Mr. Trump opened his press conference by speaking of the nation’s “anguish” and said that the investigation would take time. 

However, he then launched into an extended broadside against so-called diversity, equity and inclusion policies.

Mr. Trump — who began his presidency a week ago with an onslaught against decades-old measures aimed at preventing sexism and racism in the United States — singled out Mr. Biden’s openly gay transport secretary Pete Buttigieg. 

“He’s run it right into the ground with his diversity,” Mr. Trump said. 

The message was hammered home as Mr. Trump’s Vice President, J.D. Vance, and new Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, took turns at the podium to repeat that diversity measures kept capable Americans out of responsible jobs.

Asked again by reporters whether he was blaming workplace diversity for the crash, Mr. Trump answered: “It could have been.” 

Mr. Buttigieg responded on X, calling Mr. Trump “despicable.” 

“As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying,” he said. 

Skaters among victims

Hundreds of rescuers were rapidly at the scene but found themselves battling darkness and floating ice through the night. Some of the debris was located a mile downriver.

Among those on the airliner were several US skaters and coaches, U.S. Figure Skating said.

Officials in Moscow also confirmed the presence of Russian couple Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who won the 1994 World Pairs title.

The violence of the collision soon made it clear that survivors were unlikely.

“I just saw a fireball and it was gone,” one air traffic controller was heard telling a colleague after communication with the helicopter was cut. 

What happened?

Transport officials said both aircraft were on standard flight patterns on a clear night with good visibility.

Hegseth said the Black Hawk chopper had “a fairly experienced crew that was doing a required annual night evaluation.”

“Do I think this was preventable? Absolutely,” Transportation Secretary Sean Dufy said.

Mr. Trump, in addition to blaming racial and other kinds of diversity policies, offered extended remarks on the flight paths.

The helicopter was “going at an angle that was unbelievably bad,” Mr. Trump said. 

Washington:

US President Donald Trump blamed diversity policies implemented during the Obama and Biden administrations for compromising air safety standards. This statement came after a devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in no survivors.

Trump’s remarks have ignited a heated debate about the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The President claimed that these initiatives prioritised policy over safety, stating, “I put safety first. Obama, Biden, and the Democrats put policy first.” He further emphasised, “They actually came out with a directive: ‘too white.’ And we want the people that are competent”.

The FAA’s hiring practices have been under scrutiny, with some critics arguing that DEI programs can be discriminatory. However, supporters of these initiatives contend that they address historical and ongoing discrimination against underrepresented groups, including racial minorities.

Trump has specifically targeted former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, implying that he hired unqualified individuals with disabilities and psychological issues for air traffic control positions. Trump expressed his doubts about their competence, saying, “I don’t think so.” He also claimed that the FAA was “ran into the ground” by DEI hires after being deemed “too white”.

In response to the crash, Trump is appointing Chris Rocheleau as the acting administrator of the FAA. The agency’s hiring practices and safety standards will likely face intense scrutiny in the coming days.

It’s worth noting that changes to the FAA’s hiring practices were made during the Obama administration, which introduced a biographical test as part of the application process. This move aimed to increase diversity among air traffic controllers. However, some have criticised this approach, arguing that it prioritised diversity over competence.
 

Former US President Barack Obama took to social media X (formerly Twitter) to wish wife Michelle on her 61st birthday on Friday. In a love-filled post, Obama shared a picture with Michelle – the two of them holding hands while sitting across the table. He captioned it: “Happy birthday to the love of my life, Michelle Obama. You fill every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace – and you look good doing it. I’m so lucky to be able to take on life’s adventures with you. Love you!”

Michelle was quick to respond with “Love you, honey!” coupled with two emojis – a heart and face blowing a kiss.

Love you, honey! https://t.co/fiQaCYmQ02

— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) January 17, 2025

His post comes amid rumours about their divorce on social media platforms. The rumours spurt following reports of Michelle skipping the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. Her office announced this week that Michelle would not attend the upcoming inauguration but did not offer an explanation.

Her office said on Tuesday, “Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.”

She also did not accompany Barack to the funeral of former US president Jimmy Carter on January 9.

Michelle Obama

The former first lady grew up on the South Side of Chicago. As the daughter of a city water-pump operator and a stay-at-home mom, she never imagined inspiring people and driving historic change.

Michelle met her husband Barack in 1989 at a law firm Sidley Austin LLP, where she worked immediately after graduating from Harvard Law School. The two fell in love and married in 1992. They are parents to two girls – Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23.

“Of all the things she has achieved in her remarkable life, Michelle considers being a mother her greatest accomplishment,” reads the biography on their website.

President-elect Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama were seen engaging in a friendly conversation at President Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9, 2025.

This unexpected moment of camaraderie between the two political rivals quickly went viral on social media. Trump, who was unaware of how their interaction looked, later commented on the moment, saying, “I said, ‘Boy, they look like two people that like each other.’ And we probably do.” Despite their differing political philosophies, Trump expressed that they simply “got along” and enjoyed the ceremony.

The funeral, held at Washington’s National Cathedral, brought together five living former US presidents, including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and outgoing President Joe Biden. Vice President Kamala Harris, who had a contentious 2024 election loss to Trump, was also in attendance and appeared intrigued by the exchange between the two former presidents. However, she did not greet Trump during the service.

Trump and Obama have a history of criticising each other, with Trump spreading the birther conspiracy theory about Obama and repeatedly attacking the Obamas. However, in August, Trump issued unusual praise for his predecessor, calling him “a nice gentleman” and saying he respects the Obamas, per CNN.

The state funeral of President Jimmy Carter offered a fleeting moment of national unity, just 11 days before Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Carter was remembered for his character, humanitarian efforts, and significant contributions to foreign policy. Outgoing President Joe Biden, delivered a eulogy highlighting Carter’s foresight and character.

The moment between Trump and Obama has sparked conversations online, with many commenting on the unexpected display of friendship between the two political figures. As one user commented, “He was expecting a hello from Kamala”. The interaction has also been seen as a rare moment of unity among the living former US presidents, who were all in attendance at the funeral.
 

Former First Lady Michelle Obama was noticeably absent from former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral at the Washington National Cathedral on Thursday. A person familiar with her schedule told Politico that Michelle Obama had a scheduling conflict and is currently in Hawaii, per Politico.

Her office confirmed her absence, with spokesperson Crystal Carson stating, “Former First Lady Michelle Obama is not in attendance at President Carter’s National Funeral Service. Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President”, according to Associated Press.

Notably, Michelle Obama would have been seated next to former President Donald Trump, who instead sat next to her husband, former President Barack Obama. The two chatted for several minutes before the funeral began. Barack Obama, a Democrat, appeared to speak cordially to his Republican successor, as did former Democratic President Bill Clinton and his Republican successor, George W. Bush.

The funeral was a rare joint appearance of the five living presidents, including Obama, Trump, Clinton, George W. Bush, and President Joe Biden. They were joined by their spouses, including former first lady Melania Trump, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former first lady Laura Bush and first lady Jill Biden, except for Michelle Obama. Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff, as well as former Vice President Mike Pence and former second lady Karen Pence were also present.

The event brought together prominent leaders from the past and present, along with dignitaries from all branches of the US government and representatives of foreign leaders.

CNN reported that Michelle Obama had been on an “extended vacation” in Hawaii, which conflicted with the funeral schedule. Her spokesperson did not comment on whether she would attend President Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The dignitaries will gather again in Washington for the inauguration, marking another significant event that brings together the nation’s leaders.
 

A conversation between former US President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump, two political rivals, at the state funeral of ex-President Jimmy Carter, is going viral. Lip readers and experts have attempted to decode what Trump and Obama were talking about.

Sitting in the second row, Trump and Obama were sitting next to each other and discussing something. Trump says something to Obama, who laughs and responds. What’s even more interesting is Vice President Kamala Harris, who was backed by Obama in the Presidential campaign, sat in front of the Presidents and saw them having a conversation.

What Lip Readers Claim?

Trump: I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine that?”

Trump: “…and after, I will.”

Trump: “Call me at the foy after, yep.”

Obama: “Can you just … it should be good.”

Trump: “I can’t talk, we have to find a quiet place sometime. This is a matter of importance and we need to do this outside so that we can deal with it, certainly, today.

NEW: Trump told Obama he had to find a quiet place to speak with him regarding an urgent “matter of importance,” according to the New York Post.

The revelation was made by forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman.

Trump: “I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine… pic.twitter.com/BxSrm8XLBH

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 9, 2025

British news website, Sky News, deciphered the conversation between Trump and Obama and posted a video on X.

Barack Obama and Donald Trump were spotted chatting at Jimmy Carter’s funeral.

Here’s what a lip reader could make of their conversation – do you agree? pic.twitter.com/1uz014XNYX

— Sky News (@SkyNews) January 9, 2025

NDTV cannot independently verify the claims made by the lip readers.

The New York Post quoted a forensic lip reader, Jeremy Freeman and said in its report, “Trump cautioned Obama that they would have to “find a quiet place” later in the day to discuss a “matter of importance.”

Photo Credit: AFP

The context of the conversation is unclear. But, Freeman suggests that the ex-President and President-elect were discussing international agreements at Jimmy Carter’s funeral

Trump leaned toward Obama and said, “I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine that?” 

Freeman suggests that the two leaders are talking about the Iran nuclear deal of 2015, signed by Obama and then Trump withdrew from it in 2018.

The funeral brought a brief moment of unity in divided America which saw five Presidents – George Bush, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump – come together to pay their respects to President Carter.

Arch Rivals

In 2016, Donald Trump became the 45th President of the United States, taking over from Barack Obama after defeating Hilary Clinton. Trump was out of office four years later and Joe Biden came to power, four years later, Trump is back in office and will be sworn in on January 20.

During the election campaign, Obama blasted Donald Trump, saying that the Republican candidate cares only about “his ego, money and status”.

“I have said it before and I am gonna say it again, Donald Trump is a 78-year-old billionaire who has not stopped whining about his problem since he rode down that golden escalator nine years ago. He is constantly complaining, and when he is not complaining, he is trying to sell you stuff,” he said.

From personal attacks to criticism of the Biden administration’s policies, Trump’s campaign, which was backed by the world’s richest man – Elon Musk – had no holds barred.

The Obamas teamed up to back Kamala Harris but the Vice President lost the election after a landslide win by Trump who won all the seven swing states.

New Delhi:

Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister whose lasting legacy would be seen by many as the economic liberalisation of 1991, will perhaps be remembered as much for his perseverance in bringing about the nuclear deal with the US. 

The deal came through in 2008 — with Manmohan Singh steering it through 39 months amid initial disapproval from some in the Congress, including Sonia Gandhi, and later the strong Opposition from the Left Front, which pulled support from the government. 

Two years later, speaking on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Toronto (Canada), then US President Barrack Obama praised Dr. Singh. “I can tell you that here at G20, when the Prime Minister speaks, people listen,” President Obama had said.

The deal he stood by ended the era of sanctions placed on India after the Pokhran 2 nuclear tests of 1998 with partial sanctions by IAEA that covered only the civil nuclear facilities. It also steered the country away from the Nehruvian policy of non-alignment, placed it front and centre of the international community and secured it a place at the nuclear club high table.  

The situation also brought out an unexpected political savvy that many did not expect from the former Prime Minister. When the government, and the deal, were under threat, he secured the outside support of Mulayam Singh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party to save both.

Manmohan Singh died in Delhi this evening. He was 92. 

In his condolence message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders.

“India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” read his post on X.

Today, India mourns the loss of its former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions. According to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, where he was admitted, Dr. Singh had a sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26, 2024.

Dr. Singh is survived by his wife, Gurcharan Singh, and their three daughters. His legacy, however, extends far beyond his family. As a renowned economist and statesman, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic transformation. His tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 was marked by significant economic reforms, which lifted millions of people out of poverty.

Former US President Barack Obama, in his memoir “A Promised Land,” paid tribute to Dr. Singh’s exceptional leadership, describing him as a “man with uncommon wisdom”. Obama praised Dr. Singh’s commitment to economic reform, his dedication to the well-being of the Indian people, and his unwavering integrity.

Mr Obama wrote that Dr. Singh, an eminent economist, had managed to lift millions of people from poverty and that the markings of his Sikh faith made him look “holy” in the eyes of the West. He further added that Dr Singh’s tenure as a Prime Minister proved that he was “wise, thoughtful, and scrupulously honest”.

Dr. Singh’s impact on India’s economic landscape is undeniable. He implemented policies that encouraged growth, reduced poverty, and increased access to education and healthcare. His government’s initiatives, such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act, have had a lasting impact on the country.

Despite facing criticism during his tenure, Dr. Singh remained optimistic about his legacy. In his last press conference as Prime Minister in January 2014, he expressed his faith in history’s judgment, saying, “I honestly believe that history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media, or for that matter, the Opposition parties in Parliament”.

As India bids farewell to this visionary leader, we remember his remarkable contributions to the nation’s growth and development. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and policymakers, and his impact on India’s history will be remembered for years to come.
 

Netflix on Thursday started streaming its new nature documentary series “Our Oceans”. Narrated by former US President Barack Obama, the five-episode docuseries is dedicated to the world’s five oceans – Pacific, Indian, Atlantic, Arctic, and Southern.

In a video shared on Instagram, Netflix showed Mr Obama doing a voice-over inside a recording booth.

“Here we go… Our oceans are vast realms of wonder, danger and mystery. Explore new worlds just below the surface,” he can be heard saying.

“That’s it. It’s a wrap,” Mr Obama says as he finishes his recording.

“Our Oceans” is directed by Emmy-winning wildlife filmmaker James Honeyborne and produced by Higher Ground Productions, which was founded by Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama.

Launched in 2018, Higher Ground has already released about 18 projects, including the animated show “Waffles + Mochi” and the docuseries “Working: What We Do All Day”, which follows Mr Obama visiting people in their homes and their workplaces to learn more about their lives. 

In 2022, the Higher Ground produced a natural history docuseries called “Our Great National Parks”, which was also narrated by Mr Obama. The 63-year-old leader had even won a Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Narrator.