Nearly 2,600 people died from COVID-19 in just 24 hours in the US, recording the heaviest daily toll of any country.
The total fatalities in the country stood at 28,544 and positive cases at more than 644,000.
The figures come as President Donald Trump announced, during his White House press briefing, that the country had "passed the peak" on new cases and lockdown restrictions needed to be lifted.
He told reporters his "aggressive strategy" against the virus was working and plans to reopen the economy will be made on Thursday.
Trump suggested that less-affected states could ease restrictions before May 1.
Globally, the death toll has topped 134,000, with more than two million infections.
US judge lets more Epstein grand jury materials be made public
At least 22 killed in collapse of two buildings in Morocco's old city of Fez
Zelenskyy says he's open to elections if US ensures security
Putin meets Indonesia's Prabowo to discuss military and energy ties, wheat exports
Air India urges overhaul in compliance culture after flying Airbus without permit
