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TechUber launches autonomous rides in Zagreb, its first in Europe

Uber, Verne and Pony.ai said on Wednesday that they had launched autonomous rides in Zagreb. The Croatian capital is the first European city where users can book a self-driving vehicle through Uber’s app.

Uberautonomous vehiclesZagreb

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:40

Uber launches autonomous rides in Zagreb, its first in Europe
Uber launches autonomous rides in Zagreb, its first in Europe

World5 Americans killed in helicopter crash in Kenya, including Telemundo executive

Five Americans died Wednesday when a charter helicopter carrying seven people crashed in a mountainous area near Kirish in Kenya’s Samburu County, according to the State Department and local aviation officials. Telemundo executive José Suárez was reportedly among the dead. The operator said the cause remains under investigation.

Kenyahelicopter crashAmerican deaths

FFox NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:40

5 Americans killed in helicopter crash in Kenya, including Telemundo executive
5 Americans killed in helicopter crash in Kenya, including Telemundo executive

WorldMore than 100 killed in Central African Republic gold mine collapse

A gold mine in Zamboye, a Central African Republic village near the Cameroon border, collapsed on Tuesday, killing more than 100 people, according to an official from a local mining association. A youth council member warned that the toll could rise as additional victims were pulled from the rubble.

Central African Republicgold minemine collapse

FFrance 24Original★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:36

More than 100 killed in Central African Republic gold mine collapse
More than 100 killed in Central African Republic gold mine collapse
  • CAR: More than 100 feared killed in landslide at illegal gold mine
    CAR: More than 100 feared killed in landslide at illegal gold mine

    Authorities in the Central African Republic say a landslide at the illegal Zamboye gold-mining site near the Cameroon border may have killed more than 100 workers. Others remain trapped as rescue efforts continue and hopes of finding survivors fade; an investigation has been opened.

    Central African Republiclandslideillegal miningrescue

    DDW★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:38Original
  • Landslide at Central African Republic gold-mining site kills over 100, mining group says
    Landslide at Central African Republic gold-mining site kills over 100, mining group says

    A landslide at an artisanal gold-mining site in the Central African Republic has killed more than 100 people, according to an official from a local mining association.

    Central African Republiclandslidegold miningdeaths

    RReuters★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:35Original
  • Dozens killed after gold mine collapses in Central African Republic
    Dozens killed after gold mine collapses in Central African Republic

    At least 30 people were killed when an artisanal gold mine collapsed in Zamboye, western Central African Republic, near the Cameroon border. Rescuers and residents recovered 30 bodies, but others may remain trapped. A local official said the toll could be about 40, though a formal count is not yet available.

    Central African Republicgold mine collapserescue operations

    AAl Jazeera★★★☆☆2026-08-19 12:38Original

WorldUkrainian forces attack minibus on Novorossiya highway in DPR

DPR head Denis Pushilin said Ukrainian forces attacked a minibus on the R-280 Novorossiya highway in Mangushsky District, killing the driver, a man born in 1999.

UkraineDonetsk People's Republicattack

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:35

Ukrainian forces attack minibus on Novorossiya highway in DPR

EconomyAnother SpaceX Share Unlock Puts the Stock to the Test

SpaceX’s $86.2 billion IPO on June 11 shattered nearly every record for new listings. Investors of all sizes rushed to buy shares and support Elon Musk’s sweeping vision spanning space-based data centers, expanded Starlink service, artificial intelligence, chipmaking, space tourism and even asteroid mining.

SpaceXIPOshare unlockElon Musk

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:30

Another SpaceX Share Unlock Puts the Stock to the Test
Another SpaceX Share Unlock Puts the Stock to the Test

TechI Saw the Future of AI in a Robot That Can Learn on the Spot

During a recent visit to Generalist AI, I watched a robotic arm improvise and use a banana as a tool, offering a glimpse of how AI-enabled robots may learn and act in the moment.

artificial intelligenceroboticsmachine learning

WWIREDOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:30

I Saw the Future of AI in a Robot That Can Learn on the Spot
I Saw the Future of AI in a Robot That Can Learn on the Spot

EconomyMotor oil prices in Russia spike 40% as imports run short

Russia’s motor oil supply chain is facing disruptions. Market participants told Kommersant that a broad shortage has not yet emerged, but delivery times have lengthened and prices for some products have risen 40%. The main pressure is on imported oils, while Russian-made products may also be affected by shortages of imported additives and unscheduled refinery repairs after Ukrainian drone attacks.

Russiamotor oilimport shortagesfuel crisis

MMeduzaOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:28

Motor oil prices in Russia spike 40% as imports run short
Motor oil prices in Russia spike 40% as imports run short

World582 skeletons, including children, discovered in Sri Lankan mass grave

An excavation of a mass grave in Sri Lanka has uncovered 582 skeletons, including babies and children. The site is linked to allegations that the military killed Tamil civilians during the civil war, while investigations were delayed for 30 years.

Sri Lankamass graveTamil civilianscivil war

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:26

582 skeletons, including children, discovered in Sri Lankan mass grave
582 skeletons, including children, discovered in Sri Lankan mass grave

WorldSource: US F-35A fighter flies over Baltic Sea near Russia’s Kaliningrad Region

A source in EU air traffic control services said a US F-35A Lightning II fighter was flying and maneuvering over neutral Baltic Sea waters near the Kaliningrad Region at an altitude of about one kilometer. The aircraft arrived from Reykjavík via the airspace of Norway, Sweden and Poland. Several NATO reconnaissance, radar and electronic-warfare aircraft had operated near the region the previous day.

US F-35ABaltic SeaKaliningradNATO

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:25

Source: US F-35A fighter flies over Baltic Sea near Russia’s Kaliningrad Region

SocietyMore than 100 dead birds found in freezer at Moscow parrot petting zoo

Prosecutors found more than 100 dead birds in a freezer at Popugaynya, a parrot petting zoo in Moscow’s Taganka neighborhood. The birds had suffered injuries “incompatible with survival,” while the venue was cited for animal welfare, veterinary, and licensing violations. A criminal animal-cruelty case has been opened.

Moscowanimal crueltyparrot petting zoo

MMeduzaOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:23

More than 100 dead birds found in freezer at Moscow parrot petting zoo
More than 100 dead birds found in freezer at Moscow parrot petting zoo

SocietyCeuta: Madrid to transfer 500 vulnerable youths to mainland

Spanish officials plan to move about 500 particularly vulnerable unaccompanied minors from the North African exclave of Ceuta to mainland Spain, most of them girls. They will be placed in foster homes and government care, with 97 girls aged 9 to 17 already moved to improved facilities.

Ceutaunaccompanied minorsmigrationSpain

DDWOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:23

Ceuta: Madrid to transfer 500 vulnerable youths to mainland
Ceuta: Madrid to transfer 500 vulnerable youths to mainland

SportsISU grants neutral status to four more Russian figure skaters

The International Skating Union has granted neutral status to four more Russian figure skaters: Kira Domozhirova, Viktor Potapov, Milana Kuzmina and Dmitry Studenikin. The number of Russian athletes cleared to compete internationally under neutral status has risen to 75.

figure skatingISURussian athletesneutral status

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:22

ISU grants neutral status to four more Russian figure skaters

WorldRussian Emergencies Ministry aircraft arrives in Serbia to fight major wildfires

An Il-76 aircraft from Russia’s Emergencies Ministry landed in Nis, Serbia, to help battle wildfires raging across the country. It carries a purpose-built water-dropping system capable of releasing up to 42 tons over the most intense fire zones. Serbian authorities requested assistance from Moscow.

SerbiawildfiresRussian Emergencies Ministryfirefighting assistance

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:18

Russian Emergencies Ministry aircraft arrives in Serbia to fight major wildfires

EconomyEuropean Gas Storage Facilities Could Be Depleted by April 2027 — Handelsblatt

European gas storage operators are injecting gas more slowly as the US-Iran conflict curbs LNG supplies. Citing Montel calculations, Handelsblatt said storage could reach only 69% by November 1 if purchases continue at the current pace, leaving reserves at risk of being depleted by April 2027. Reaching the 80% target would require 142 LNG tankers a month, versus an average of 105 recently.

European gasgas storageLNGUS-Iran conflict

TTASSOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 19:18

European Gas Storage Facilities Could Be Depleted by April 2027 — Handelsblatt

WorldRussia and Ukraine exchange 103 prisoners of war each

Russia’s Defense Ministry said Moscow and Kyiv each handed over 103 prisoners in a new exchange, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed. The previous swap, on June 26, involved 160 people from each side. The two countries also exchanged the bodies of fallen soldiers in July and August.

Russia-Ukraine warprisoner exchangeRussiaUkraine

MMeduzaOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 19:17

Russia and Ukraine exchange 103 prisoners of war each
Russia and Ukraine exchange 103 prisoners of war each

PoliticsUS service member arrested over Trump impeachment call detained again

Jason Watson, the US service member arrested last month on the US Capitol steps after calling for President Donald Trump’s impeachment, has been detained again days after criticizing Trump in an exclusive CNN interview.

US politicsDonald TrumpUS Capitoldetention

CCNNOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:16

US service member arrested over Trump impeachment call detained again

WorldUN's Guterres seriously concerned by US sanctions on ICC

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is seriously concerned about the United States' decision to sanction International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, a UN spokesperson said on Wednesday.

United NationsUS sanctionsInternational Criminal Court

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 19:15

UN's Guterres seriously concerned by US sanctions on ICC
UN's Guterres seriously concerned by US sanctions on ICC
  • Why the US is going after the International Criminal Court
    Why the US is going after the International Criminal Court

    US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced sanctions against ICC President Tomoko Akane of Japan and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye of Senegal, including frozen US-held assets and restricted access to the US financial system. Rubio called the court corrupt and politicized, while legal experts described the move as a significant escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign.

    United StatesInternational Criminal Courtsanctionsinternational law

    DDW★★★★☆2026-08-19 13:19Original
  • ICC condemns US sanctions as ‘flagrant attack’ on court’s independence
    ICC condemns US sanctions as ‘flagrant attack’ on court’s independence

    The International Criminal Court denounced US sanctions on its president, Tomoko Akane, and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye as a “flagrant attack” on its independence. Japan and the European Union backed Akane, while Washington accused the targeted officials of pursuing cases against governments that reject ICC jurisdiction.

    International Criminal CourtUS sanctionsjudicial independenceTrump administration

    AAl Jazeera★★★★☆2026-08-19 12:59Original
  • Trump administration sanctions sitting ICC president for ‘abuses of power’
    Trump administration sanctions sitting ICC president for ‘abuses of power’

    The Trump administration sanctioned ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, accusing the court of being “corrupt and fatally politicized.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the measures freeze their U.S.-jurisdiction assets and restrict access to Americans and the U.S. financial system. The ICC called the sanctions an attack on judicial independence that undermines the rule of law.

    International Criminal CourtUS sanctionsTrump administrationGaza war

    FFox News★★★★☆2026-08-19 11:15Original

PoliticsProtests in Kyiv back ex-defence minister Fedorov’s call for elections

People protested in Kyiv in support of ousted Defence Minister Mykailo Fedorov’s call for wartime elections. The demonstration took place as Ukraine’s parliament approved Yevhenii Khmara as his replacement.

UkraineKyivprotestselections

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 19:09

Protests in Kyiv back ex-defence minister Fedorov’s call for elections
Protests in Kyiv back ex-defence minister Fedorov’s call for elections

CultureYouTube blocks Serbian director Emir Kusturica’s channel

YouTube has blocked “My Life,” a channel operated by Serbian film director Emir Kusturica, according to Sputnik’s Serbian-language service. The channel, made in collaboration with Sputnik, had 243 videos and 30,000 subscribers. Kusturica has repeatedly backed Vladimir Putin and Kremlin policies.

YouTubeEmir KusturicaSputnikchannel blocking

MMeduzaOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:04

YouTube blocks Serbian director Emir Kusturica’s channel
YouTube blocks Serbian director Emir Kusturica’s channel
  • Kusturica condemns blocking of his YouTube channel as a ‘war on truth’

    Serbian director Emir Kusturica called YouTube’s suspension of his “My Life” channel and the Sputnik Serbia-related channel an attempt by a “totalitarian society” to wage war on people who speak the truth. No official reason for the removal was specified.

    Emir KusturicaYouTubechannel removal

    TTASS★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 17:26Original

PoliticsWho is Natalie Harp, Trump's right-hand woman?

Natalie Harp is one of Donald Trump’s longest-serving and most loyal aides. As his executive assistant, she types Truth Social posts, carries a portable printer and is frequently seen near him. She returned to the spotlight after Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff highlighted her closeness to Trump in a viral speech.

Natalie HarpDonald TrumpWhite HouseUS politics

BBBC NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:02

Who is Natalie Harp, Trump's right-hand woman?
Who is Natalie Harp, Trump's right-hand woman?

TechMarvell Gives Google Right to Buy Up to $12.2 Billion in Shares

Marvell Technology has agreed to give Alphabet’s Google the right to purchase as much as $12.2 billion of its shares in exchange for Google buying chips.

Marvell TechnologyGooglechipsshares

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:00

Marvell Gives Google Right to Buy Up to $12.2 Billion in Shares
Marvell Gives Google Right to Buy Up to $12.2 Billion in Shares

TechAmazon plans to expand lightweight-package drone delivery to 500 US cities

Amazon announced Wednesday that it plans to extend drone delivery to suburban areas in nearly 500 U.S. cities. By the end of the year, millions more people could receive the company’s smaller, lighter packages by air.

Amazondrone deliverypackage delivery

TThe Associated PressOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:00

Amazon plans to expand lightweight-package drone delivery to 500 US cities
Amazon plans to expand lightweight-package drone delivery to 500 US cities
  • Amazon plans to expand drone delivery to about 500 U.S. locales
    Amazon plans to expand drone delivery to about 500 U.S. locales

    Amazon said on Wednesday that it plans to extend its drone delivery service to hundreds of U.S. cities and towns by the end of the year. The service currently operates in 11 locations, serving several nearby communities.

    Amazondrone deliveryUnited States

    RReuters★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:15Original

TechGoogle Gemini is getting a dedicated student hub

Google is rolling out a student hub in Gemini for organizing research, making flashcards, taking practice quizzes, and managing study materials with graphs and images. Gemini Live is adding Deep Research, while Google Lens will offer explanations and coaching for photographed worksheets. Eligible US students can get Google AI Pro free for one year.

Google GeminiAIeducation technology

TThe VergeOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 19:00

Google Gemini is getting a dedicated student hub
Google Gemini is getting a dedicated student hub

TechRussia’s August VPN crackdown relied on data already collected by its own apps

Russia launched one of its broadest VPN-blocking waves in early August. Representatives of four services said the campaign apparently used IP addresses, social-media links, and corporate subnet data gathered by Yandex, VK, Max, and HeadHunter and fed into the TSPU filtering system, making blocking broader and more automated while slowing data-center networks.

RussiaVPN blockinginternet censorshipuser data

MMeduzaOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:55

Russia’s August VPN crackdown relied on data already collected by its own apps
Russia’s August VPN crackdown relied on data already collected by its own apps

PoliticsEx-deputy head of Zelensky’s office Mudraya detained, lawmaker says

Former deputy head of Zelensky’s office Irina Mudraya, dismissed amid a corruption scandal, has been detained and will spend the night in a temporary detention facility, lawmaker Alexey Goncharenko said. NABU later said she was among officials allegedly involved in a criminal group linked to former and current Verkhovna Rada members.

Ukrainecorruption probeIrina Mudraya

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:50

Ex-deputy head of Zelensky’s office Mudraya detained, lawmaker says
  • NABU charges former deputy head of Zelensky’s office, lawyer says

    Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau has charged Irina Mudraya, a former deputy head of President Vladimir Zelensky’s office who was dismissed amid a corruption scandal, her lawyer Artyom Krikun-Troush said. NABU also searched two locations, while the lawyer said Mudraya had not been detained. The agency announced a special operation targeting a criminal group that allegedly included her, a former deputy and a state-bank chairman.

    Ukraineanti-corruptionZelensky officeinvestigation

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:51Original
  • Zelenskyy sacks senior aide amid Ukraine corruption crisis
    Zelenskyy sacks senior aide amid Ukraine corruption crisis

    Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, dismissed presidential deputy chief of staff Iryna Mudra by decree amid reports that officials investigating an alleged money-laundering scheme had searched her home. The move came a day after former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov said Ukraine faced a “crisis of governance” and called for a wartime presidential election.

    Ukraine politicscorruption investigationZelenskyypresidential election

    TThe Guardian★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:14Original

WorldViolence in the New Syria?

The death of Syrian White Helmets rescuer Mohammad Ghamira, allegedly after being beaten in police custody, has triggered protests and fears that abuses associated with the Assad era could return. Syria’s Interior Ministry is investigating the case.

Syriaprotestspolice custodyWhite Helmets

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:50

Violence in the New Syria?
Violence in the New Syria?

PoliticsZelensky’s office calls Fedorov’s demand for wartime elections unrealistic

An anonymous source in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office told BBC News that holding elections while the war continues is “highly bizarre” and shows a “complete lack of realism” amid missiles and drones. Former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov had called for elections in a video address. Zelensky has not responded.

Ukraine politicswartime electionsVolodymyr ZelenskyMykhailo Fedorov

MMeduzaOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:49

Zelensky’s office calls Fedorov’s demand for wartime elections unrealistic
Zelensky’s office calls Fedorov’s demand for wartime elections unrealistic
  • ‘I’m skeptical’ — Ukrainian soldiers react to Fedorov’s bombshell election video
    ‘I’m skeptical’ — Ukrainian soldiers react to Fedorov’s bombshell election video

    Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for a legal, safe and realistic way to hold elections in Ukraine during the prolonged war. Serving soldiers and a veteran said elections are overdue but currently impossible because of security threats, occupied districts, disrupted campaigning and the need to protect military personnel’s voting and candidacy rights.

    Ukrainewartime electionsMykhailo Fedorovmilitary

    TThe Kyiv Independent★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:06Original
  • Fyodorov’s comments pose biggest challenge to Zelensky since 2022 — WSJ

    The Wall Street Journal says ousted Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fyodorov’s call for elections despite martial law is the biggest challenge to Volodymyr Zelensky since February 2022. In Kyiv, his remarks are seen as an opening bid for a presidential run aimed at channeling anger over alleged government corruption and Zelensky’s desire to continue the conflict.

    UkraineZelenskypresidential electiongovernment crisis

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:00Original
  • Fyodorov loses to Zelensky in Rada but prepares new moves, news outlet says

    Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fyodorov failed to block Yevgeny Khmara’s appointment as defense minister, with Zelensky showing he still controls parliament, Strana reported. The outlet said Fyodorov then called for a presidential election during the war and may continue using anti-corruption agencies to pressure Zelensky into concessions.

    Ukraine politicsVolodymyr ZelenskyyUkrainian parliamentanti-corruption agencies

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 15:59Original
  • Sacking turns former Zelenskyy loyalist into potent political opponent
    Sacking turns former Zelenskyy loyalist into potent political opponent

    Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has emerged as a powerful opponent of Volodymyr Zelenskyy after calling for wartime elections and accusing the administration of a systemic governance crisis. Demonstrations in Kyiv have backed Fedorov, while parliament’s approval of a successor confirms his exclusion from government.

    Ukraine politicsMykhailo FedorovVolodymyr Zelenskyyanti-corruption

    TThe Guardian★★★★☆2026-08-19 15:52Original
  • Why is Ukraine’s ex-defence minister calling for wartime elections?
    Why is Ukraine’s ex-defence minister calling for wartime elections?

    Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has urged elections during the war, a move seen as a major challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Elections have been suspended under martial law since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Fedorov has not explained how free and fair voting could take place during the war or said whether he would run against Zelensky.

    Ukrainewartime electionsMykhailo FedorovVolodymyr Zelensky

    BBBC News★★★☆☆2026-08-19 15:38Original
  • Ukraine MPs approve new defence minister after divisive reshuffle
    Ukraine MPs approve new defence minister after divisive reshuffle

    Ukraine’s lawmakers approved a new defence minister on Wednesday, a month after a reshuffle sparked public backlash over the dismissal of popular predecessor Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov had called the previous day for moving toward elections delayed because of Russia’s invasion.

    Ukrainedefence ministerreshuffleelections

    FFrance 24★★★☆☆2026-08-19 14:34Original
  • Ousted Ukrainian minister Mykhailo Fedorov calls for elections during war
    Ousted Ukrainian minister Mykhailo Fedorov calls for elections during war

    Ousted Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov called in a YouTube address for elections to be held while the war with Russia continues, saying Ukraine faces a governance crisis. Ukrainian law bars elections under martial law, which has been in force since February 24, 2022.

    Ukrainewartime electionsgovernance crisis

    FFrance 24★★★☆☆2026-08-19 12:23Original
  • Rada appoints Khmara as defense minister

    Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada voted 312-0 to appoint Yevgeny Khmara as defense minister, surpassing the 226 votes required. Khmara had served as acting minister since July 16, after Mikhail Fyodorov was dismissed on July 14.

    Ukrainedefense ministerVerkhovna Rada

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 10:57Original
  • Ukraine’s parliament approves Yevhenii Khmara as new defence minister
    Ukraine’s parliament approves Yevhenii Khmara as new defence minister

    Ukraine’s parliament approved Yevhenii Khmara’s appointment as the country’s new defence minister on Wednesday.

    Ukrainedefence ministerparliament

    RReuters★★★☆☆2026-08-19 10:50Original
  • Parliament votes through Yevhen Khmara to succeed Fedorov as defense minister
    Parliament votes through Yevhen Khmara to succeed Fedorov as defense minister

    Ukraine’s parliament confirmed President Volodymyr Zelensky’s defense minister nominee, former senior SBU officer Yevhen Khmara, by 312 votes on Aug. 19; 226 were required. The decision ends Mykhailo Fedorov’s hopes of returning to the post, which protesters had demanded during demonstrations outside parliament.

    Ukrainedefense ministerparliament voteYevhen Khmara

    TThe Kyiv Independent★★★☆☆2026-08-19 10:35Original
  • Sacked Ukraine defence minister urges path to elections
    Sacked Ukraine defence minister urges path to elections

    Ukraine’s popular former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, dismissed last month, called Tuesday for progress toward elections delayed by Russia’s invasion. Ukraine imposed martial law after Russian forces crossed the border in February 2022, and military rule bars elections.

    Ukraineelectionsmartial lawRussia invasion

    FFrance 24★★★☆☆2026-08-19 09:29Original
  • Ousted Ukraine defence minister challenges Zelensky’s leadership
    Ousted Ukraine defence minister challenges Zelensky’s leadership

    Ousted Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for elections to be held despite the continuing war with Russia, saying Ukraine is facing a governance crisis. His break with President Volodymyr Zelensky is potentially the most serious internal challenge to Zelensky since Russia’s full-scale invasion.

    UkraineVolodymyr Zelenskyelectionsgovernance crisis

    FFrance 24★★★★☆2026-08-19 09:23Original
  • Ukraine’s sacked defence minister calls for wartime elections
    Ukraine’s sacked defence minister calls for wartime elections

    Recently dismissed Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for elections during wartime, saying the country faces a governance crisis. It is the first such demand from a major Ukrainian political figure since Russia’s invasion began in 2022.

    Ukrainewartime electionsgovernance crisis

    AAl Jazeera★★★☆☆2026-08-19 08:46Original

HealthTrump nominates Heidi Overton to lead FDA

US President Donald Trump has nominated Heidi Overton, a former policy officer at the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute, to lead the Food and Drug Administration. He said she would advance “America First” policies. The vacancy followed Marty Makary’s May resignation, and Overton requires Senate confirmation.

Donald TrumpHeidi OvertonFDAhealth policy

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:48

Trump nominates Heidi Overton to lead FDA
Trump nominates Heidi Overton to lead FDA
  • Trump says he will nominate Dr. Heidi Overton as next FDA commissioner

    President Trump says he will nominate Dr. Heidi Overton to become the next FDA commissioner, elevating a longtime ally to lead the embattled agency.

    TrumpHeidi OvertonFDA appointment

    CCNN★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:11Original
  • Trump taps White House adviser Overton to lead FDA
    Trump taps White House adviser Overton to lead FDA

    U.S. President Donald Trump named White House policy aide Heidi Overton to head the Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday, months after the previous chief resigned. Trump said online that Overton would advance his “America First” policies.

    Donald TrumpFDAappointment

    RReuters★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:40Original
  • Trump picks top White House aide Heidi Overton to lead FDA
    Trump picks top White House aide Heidi Overton to lead FDA

    President Donald Trump has chosen Dr. Heidi Overton to lead the Food and Drug Administration. Overton serves as deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council and is a trusted figure in the administration.

    Donald TrumpHeidi OvertonFDA

    TThe Associated Press★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:38Original

ScienceNASA and Katalyst cancel SWIFT rescue mission after spacecraft suffers orbital failures

A mission to save NASA’s aging SWIFT observatory was canceled on Wednesday after the spacecraft sent to raise the telescope’s orbit developed irreparable technical problems in space, Katalyst Space, which owns the rescue craft, said.

NASASWIFT observatoryspace mission

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:45

NASA and Katalyst cancel SWIFT rescue mission after spacecraft suffers orbital failures
NASA and Katalyst cancel SWIFT rescue mission after spacecraft suffers orbital failures

SocietyRussian landowners barred from foreign travel over uncleared hogweed as new nationwide weed rules take effect

In Russia’s Perm region, bailiffs barred landowners from leaving the country after they ignored orders to remove Sosnowsky’s hogweed, a toxic invasive plant. The restrictions were lifted after the plots were cleared. Since March 2026, landowners and users nationwide have been required to remove hazardous plants or risk fines and losing their land rights.

Russiahogweedtravel bansland regulations

MMeduzaOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:43

Russian landowners barred from foreign travel over uncleared hogweed as new nationwide weed rules take effect
Russian landowners barred from foreign travel over uncleared hogweed as new nationwide weed rules take effect

PoliticsZambian opposition leader to challenge election result in court

Opposition leader Brian Mundubile says he will challenge Zambia’s presidential election result in court, alleging voting fraud. He says his campaign documented “serious irregularities” in the conduct, counting, transmission and declaration of results that gave President Hakainde Hichilema a second term.

Zambiaelectionelectoral dispute

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:43

Zambian opposition leader to challenge election result in court
Zambian opposition leader to challenge election result in court
  • Zambia: Mundubile seeks to overturn election result in court
    Zambia: Mundubile seeks to overturn election result in court

    Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile says he plans to challenge this month's presidential election result in court, citing serious irregularities. The electoral commission declared incumbent Hakainde Hichilema the winner, while the vote was accompanied by arrests of opposition figures, interruptions in counting and EU concerns about transparency. Mundubile's party alleges shots were fired during a raid on his home. UN rights chief Volker Türk urged authorities to stop arbitrary arrests.

    Zambiapresidential electionoppositionhuman rights

    DDW★★★★☆2026-08-19 18:42Original

PoliticsLiberia says it will accept 1,200 third-country deportees from US

Liberia says it will accept up to 1,200 people deported from the United States over the next 12 months, with the first 20 expected Thursday. They would enter as “guests,” be free to leave or seek asylum, and the government says the arrangement involves no direct compensation from Washington.

LiberiaUnited Statesdeportationmigration policy

DDWOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 18:42

Liberia says it will accept 1,200 third-country deportees from US
Liberia says it will accept 1,200 third-country deportees from US
  • Liberia agrees to accept 1,200 foreign deportees from the US
    Liberia agrees to accept 1,200 foreign deportees from the US

    Liberia will accept up to 1,200 foreigners deported from the US over the next year. Officials say the people will be received as “guests”; an initial 20 are expected on Thursday and may leave freely or seek asylum. Liberia says it will receive no compensation, though the US will support the programme and migration-system improvements.

    LiberiaUnited Statesdeportationmigration policy

    BBBC News★★★★☆2026-08-19 10:47Original

WorldEl Niño rains in Peru disrupt access to Machu Picchu

Heavy rain associated with El Niño caused flooding in Peru on Wednesday, disrupting access to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Landslides closed roads, while homes in the capital Lima were flooded.

El NiñofloodingMachu PicchuPeru

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:40

El Niño rains in Peru disrupt access to Machu Picchu
El Niño rains in Peru disrupt access to Machu Picchu

EconomyAround 2,000 metric tons of Russian wheat shipped to Armenia via Azerbaijan

Russia has sent another grain shipment to Armenia in transit through Azerbaijan, including 1,820 metric tons of wheat. Azerbaijan lifted its ban on goods bound for Armenia through its territory in late October last year; since then, up to 43,000 metric tons of Russian grain and other goods have followed the route.

RussiaArmeniaAzerbaijangrain transit

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:37

Around 2,000 metric tons of Russian wheat shipped to Armenia via Azerbaijan

EconomyFed policymakers’ inflation concerns increased at July meeting, minutes show

Minutes from the Federal Reserve’s July meeting show that concern over inflation intensified. Several policymakers were prepared to raise rates, while many said higher borrowing costs would be necessary if inflation failed to fall to the central bank’s 2% target.

Federal Reserveinflationinterest rates

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 18:35

Fed policymakers’ inflation concerns increased at July meeting, minutes show
Fed policymakers’ inflation concerns increased at July meeting, minutes show

PoliticsUkraine’s Zelensky should resign before being forced out, German daily says

A Berliner Zeitung columnist argues that Vladimir Zelensky should voluntarily leave office before Ukraine’s governance crisis forces him out. The columnist says an orderly resignation would not be capitulation, while a chaotic authority crisis involving protests, internal political conflict or European pressure would pose the greater danger.

UkraineZelenskyresignationgovernance crisis

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:34

Ukraine’s Zelensky should resign before being forced out, German daily says

EconomyBessent Boosts Debt Buybacks After Treasury Yields Climb

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made another effort to curb long-term borrowing costs after they reached multi-year highs, sending Treasury yields and the dollar lower.

US Treasurydebt buybacksTreasury yields

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:30

Bessent Boosts Debt Buybacks After Treasury Yields Climb
Bessent Boosts Debt Buybacks After Treasury Yields Climb

EconomyRussia’s grain harvest to reach 100 mln metric tons in coming days

Russia’s grain harvest since the start of 2026 is expected to reach 100 million metric tons within days, Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut said. She described harvesting as progressing well, said the crop exceeds last year’s volume and noted that farmers are being prioritized for fuel supplies.

Russiagrain harvestagriculturefood supply

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:28

Russia’s grain harvest to reach 100 mln metric tons in coming days

World81-year-old man admits 1994 murder of US tourist in Germany

An 82-year-old man has admitted in court to killing 24-year-old Texan tourist Amy Lopez in Koblenz in 1994. Lopez was found dead after heading to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, and a DNA match led to the long-stalled case being reopened nearly 32 years later.

GermanyKoblenzcold casemurder

BBBC NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:26

81-year-old man admits 1994 murder of US tourist in Germany
81-year-old man admits 1994 murder of US tourist in Germany

WorldLiberia charges former vice president in transnational drug-ring probe

Liberia has charged former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor with drug trafficking, money laundering and other offenses in an investigation into a transnational narcotics network, the country’s attorney general said Wednesday.

LiberiaJewel Howard-Taylordrug traffickingmoney laundering

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:25

Liberia charges former vice president in transnational drug-ring probe
Liberia charges former vice president in transnational drug-ring probe

WorldSource: Ukraine plans to legalize disposal of missing soldiers’ bodies as surgical waste

A Russian security source told TASS that Ukraine is considering legislation allowing thousands of bodies of soldiers listed as missing to be disposed of as surgical waste. The source said overcrowded morgues holding unidentified remains are partly driving the proposal, which would also allow unclaimed bodies or body parts to be used in medical training before burial as surgical waste.

Ukrainemissing soldiersbody disposalwar

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:23

Source: Ukraine plans to legalize disposal of missing soldiers’ bodies as surgical waste

HealthRussian vaccine maker expands dog vaccine recall to four batches, citing possible sabotage

Moscow-based Vetbiokhim has told dog owners and veterinarians not to use four batches of its Multikan-8 and Multikan-6 vaccines. The company cited suspicion of organized destructive interference by hostile third parties and an ongoing additional inspection. The recall follows reports, mostly from Yaroslavl region, of large numbers of dogs dying after vaccination; local authorities have opened an inspection of the manufacturer.

dog vaccinesvaccine recallRussiaVetbiokhim

MMeduzaOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:22

Russian vaccine maker expands dog vaccine recall to four batches, citing possible sabotage
Russian vaccine maker expands dog vaccine recall to four batches, citing possible sabotage

PoliticsIran’s hardline parliament advances controversial ‘foreign infiltration’ plan

Iran’s hardline-dominated parliament has approved the broad principles of a plan framed as a fight against foreign “infiltration”. It would require authorisation or registration for a wide range of foreign-linked contacts and activities, including communication with universities, embassies and foreign media. The draft still needs final parliamentary approval and review by the Guardian Council.

Iranian politicsforeign infiltration billcivil liberties

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 18:21

Iran’s hardline parliament advances controversial ‘foreign infiltration’ plan
Iran’s hardline parliament advances controversial ‘foreign infiltration’ plan

WorldUN deputy chief declines to assess Ukraine coordinator’s remarks

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher declined to comment on Ukraine humanitarian coordinator Matthias Schmale’s conduct. Schmale accused Russia of allegedly striking humanitarian and civilian infrastructure without an investigation, while Fletcher said he would not address suggestions that a colleague had breached the UN Charter.

United NationsUkrainehumanitarian affairsRussia

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:20

UN deputy chief declines to assess Ukraine coordinator’s remarks

TechTax hack: What we know about the cyberattacks on French government agencies

Hackers targeted French government systems in June and July, stealing information on hundreds of thousands of households and private businesses, particularly from the tax authority. The attacks have prompted scrutiny of how the government is protecting personal information.

Francecyberattackstax authority

FFrance 24Original★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:18

Tax hack: What we know about the cyberattacks on French government agencies
Tax hack: What we know about the cyberattacks on French government agencies

TechValve sets up the Steam Frame in its own leaked videos

Valve leaked several videos showing the Steam Frame’s unboxing, setup, wireless dongle, and accessories before quickly pulling them from the Steam client. The VR headset can stream games from a PC or run them locally, but Valve has not announced an exact launch date.

ValveSteam Framevirtual realityleaked videos

TThe VergeOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:16

Valve sets up the Steam Frame in its own leaked videos
Valve sets up the Steam Frame in its own leaked videos

EconomyRussia’s deflation stood at 0.02% from August 11 to 17 — Rosstat

Russia recorded 0.02% deflation from August 11 to 17, according to Rosstat, compared with 0.06% the previous week. Consumer prices have fallen 0.08% since the start of August but risen 4.67% since the beginning of the year. Annual inflation was 6.08% as of August 17.

Russiainflationdeflation

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:11

Russia’s deflation stood at 0.02% from August 11 to 17 — Rosstat

WorldCanada pledges $50m aid to Lebanon and condemns Israeli ‘unlawful invasion’

Canada’s secretary of state for international development, Randeep Sarai, announced new humanitarian programmes during a visit to Lebanon, bringing Ottawa’s assistance this year to more than $50m. He condemned what he called Israel’s “unlawful invasion” and urged respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty.

CanadaLebanonhumanitarian aidIsrael

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 18:08

Canada pledges $50m aid to Lebanon and condemns Israeli ‘unlawful invasion’
Canada pledges $50m aid to Lebanon and condemns Israeli ‘unlawful invasion’

PoliticsKennedy Center board says it will not immediately restore Trump’s name

The Kennedy Center board says it is committed to taking no further action before September 8 while arguments continue over removing Donald Trump’s name from the venue. Joyce Beatty’s lawyers accuse board members of appearing intent on defying a court order, while Trump administration lawyers defend the board’s prudence.

Kennedy CenterDonald Trumplegal battle

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:06

Kennedy Center board says it will not immediately restore Trump’s name
Kennedy Center board says it will not immediately restore Trump’s name

EconomyNigeria reforms helped avert economic collapse, finance minister says

Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele said on Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu’s economic overhaul, including the removal of an expensive fuel subsidy and currency devaluation, helped stabilize Nigeria’s public finances, increase foreign reserves and attract investment.

Nigeriaeconomic reformsfuel subsidyinvestment

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:05

Nigeria reforms helped avert economic collapse, finance minister says
Nigeria reforms helped avert economic collapse, finance minister says

HealthNew Kindergarten Vaccine Data Bears RFK Jr.’s Stamp

An early but damning measure of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s influence since becoming US health secretary, the data shows more Americans sending their children to kindergarten without crucial vaccinations.

vaccinationkindergartenUS health policy

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:05

New Kindergarten Vaccine Data Bears RFK Jr.’s Stamp
New Kindergarten Vaccine Data Bears RFK Jr.’s Stamp

EconomyBank of Russia lowers dollar exchange rate for August 20 to 85.13 rubles

The Bank of Russia set the official dollar rate for August 20 at 85.1293 rubles, down 3.52 kopecks from the previous rate. The euro rate fell to 98.5457 rubles, while the yuan rate rose to 12.6301 rubles.

RussiaBank of Russiaexchange rates

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:04

Bank of Russia lowers dollar exchange rate for August 20 to 85.13 rubles

EconomyNovak expects fuel market to improve as refineries resume operations

Russian authorities expect several oil refineries to return from maintenance soon, significantly improving the fuel market, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said. The government is monitoring the market daily and working with companies to redirect supplies to regions experiencing shortages.

Russiafuel supplyoil refineriesenergy market

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 18:03

Novak expects fuel market to improve as refineries resume operations
  • Russia has begun importing fuel to boost domestic supplies — Novak

    Russia has started importing fuel to increase supplies on its domestic market, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said. Authorities have also approved rules allowing the production of lower-standard Euro 2, Euro 3 and Euro 4 fuel, while extending the import damper mechanism to diesel.

    Russiafuel supplydiesel imports

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:58Original

TechThe wearable future is stuck in a weird, experimental, existential limbo

Testing Google’s Pixel Watch 5 highlights a wearable industry pursuing AI health coaches, early warnings for hard-to-detect conditions, and personalized advice without a clear path to deliver them. AI glasses, smart rings, and other form factors are also fueling a broader device ecosystem, while raising privacy, regulatory, and reliability concerns.

wearablesartificial intelligencesmartwatcheshealth tech

TThe VergeOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 18:00

The wearable future is stuck in a weird, experimental, existential limbo
The wearable future is stuck in a weird, experimental, existential limbo

WorldCyprus taking precautions against potential threats, news agency says

Cyprus has been taking enhanced precautionary measures for several months and is closely monitoring developments, a competent source told the Cyprus News Agency. The source said four Greek F-16s and the Nikiforos Fokas frigate are stationed on the island. Reports that Iran might target US facilities in Cyprus and Bulgaria were called inaccurate by Cypriot Foreign Ministry sources, who said Cyprus is not a target.

CyprusIranpotential targets

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:57

Cyprus taking precautions against potential threats, news agency says

TechGrab an iPad Air M4 for its lowest price since the June increase

Amazon and Best Buy are selling the latest 11-inch iPad Air with an M4 chip for $649, or $100 below the new retail price introduced in June. The 256GB model is $749, while the cellular version is $799. The update improves performance and adds Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, but offers few other notable changes.

AppleiPad Airdeals

TThe VergeOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 17:56

Grab an iPad Air M4 for its lowest price since the June increase
Grab an iPad Air M4 for its lowest price since the June increase

WorldBrazil bus crash kills at least 23 and injures five in Paraná state

At least 23 people died and five were injured when a bus carrying patients, companions and healthcare workers to hospitals near Curitiba collided head-on with a truck in Paraná state. Authorities said preliminary evidence suggests the truck crossed into the opposite lane. The state governor declared three days of mourning.

Brazilbus crashParaná

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:54

Brazil bus crash kills at least 23 and injures five in Paraná state
Brazil bus crash kills at least 23 and injures five in Paraná state

WorldNATO says it is prepared to defend allies amid reported Iranian strike plans

NATO says it is ready to confront any threat and take necessary action to defend its allies after a report that Iran had considered attacks on US military sites in Europe. Bulgaria has tightened security at Bezmer Air Base, which was approved for use by US military aircraft and personnel.

NATOIranEuropean securitymilitary bases

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:50

NATO says it is prepared to defend allies amid reported Iranian strike plans
NATO says it is prepared to defend allies amid reported Iranian strike plans

PoliticsUS Justice Department defends prosecution of Comey over seashell post

The US Justice Department is defending its prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey over an Instagram image showing seashells arranged as “86 47”. Prosecutors argue an objective viewer could read it as “Kill President Trump” and say Comey used the backlash to promote his forthcoming novel. Comey denies intending a threat, while his lawyers call the case political retaliation.

James ComeyDonald TrumpJustice Departmentcriminal prosecution

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:50

US Justice Department defends prosecution of Comey over seashell post
US Justice Department defends prosecution of Comey over seashell post

TechPayments firm Stripe to buy AI developer platform OpenRouter

Stripe said on Wednesday it has agreed to acquire OpenRouter, a platform that helps businesses route and optimize their use of AI tokens. The value of the deal was not disclosed.

StripeOpenRouterartificial intelligenceacquisition

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 17:50

Payments firm Stripe to buy AI developer platform OpenRouter
Payments firm Stripe to buy AI developer platform OpenRouter

WorldSuspected drone crashes and explodes on Turkish police station grounds

A suspected drone exploded at a police station in Arsin, in Turkey’s Trabzon province, around 7 p.m. on Aug. 18. Parked vehicles and nearby windows were damaged, but no one was injured. Authorities are examining the wreckage and have not established the object’s origin or any link to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

TurkeyTrabzondroneexplosion

TThe Kyiv IndependentOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 17:49

Suspected drone crashes and explodes on Turkish police station grounds
Suspected drone crashes and explodes on Turkish police station grounds

EconomyCanada and US say trade deal is nearing completion, but details remain unclear

Canada and the US say they are close to finalising a trade agreement after Prime Minister Mark Carney cited “significant progress” in negotiations. Donald Trump said it would benefit American farmers and manufacturers, but the scope and concessions remain unclear. A planned wave of 50% tariffs on Canadian goods has been paused until the weekend.

Canada-US tradetariffstrade negotiations

BBBC NewsOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:47

Canada and US say trade deal is nearing completion, but details remain unclear
Canada and US say trade deal is nearing completion, but details remain unclear
  • Trump says US and Canada reach ‘very fair’ trade agreement
    Trump says US and Canada reach ‘very fair’ trade agreement

    US President Donald Trump says Washington and Ottawa have reached a “very fair” trade deal that would impose no tariffs on US farmers and businesses exporting to Canada. Officials have not confirmed the full terms, after Trump paused a threatened 50 percent tariff for three days.

    US-Canada tradetariffsDonald Trump

    AAl Jazeera★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:55Original

WorldMultiple deadly Israeli strikes hit Gaza in under 24 hours

Verified footage shows the aftermath of two strikes in Gaza City on Tuesday and Wednesday, with several people, including women and children, injured. The Hamas-run health ministry said multiple Palestinians were killed. Israel’s military said Hamas commanders were targeted and that steps were taken beforehand to reduce civilian harm. The strikes followed a ceasefire agreement that has seen repeated Israeli attacks.

GazaIsraeli strikesHamasceasefire

BBBC NewsOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:46

Multiple deadly Israeli strikes hit Gaza in under 24 hours
Multiple deadly Israeli strikes hit Gaza in under 24 hours
MAJOR

WorldUkraine war latest: 103 POWs returned home in latest exchange with Russia

Ukraine brought home 103 prisoners of war in its latest exchange with Russia and handed 103 Russian service members back, officials said. Russian drones killed two police officers and injured at least 20 people at a police headquarters in Zhytomyr, while a strike on a minibus in Kherson killed four and wounded five. Ukrainian drones also hit an oil refinery in Ufa, Russia.

Russia-Ukraine warPOW exchangedrone strikesUkraine

TThe Kyiv IndependentOriginal★★★★★2026-08-19 17:42

Ukraine war latest: 103 POWs returned home in latest exchange with Russia
Ukraine war latest: 103 POWs returned home in latest exchange with Russia
MAJOR
  • Putin orders program to rebuild Russian logistics facilities damaged by Ukrainian strikes
    Putin orders program to rebuild Russian logistics facilities damaged by Ukrainian strikes

    Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the government to create a program to rebuild logistics and warehouse facilities damaged in Ukrainian attacks, including with state involvement. He called for technologically upgraded repairs and acknowledged that the strikes are hurting Russia’s economy, while insisting they have caused no “critical consequences.” Ukrainian forces have repeatedly hit Wildberries logistics centers since July, with losses estimated at hundreds of billions of rubles.

    RussiaUkraine strikeslogistics facilitiesVladimir Putin

    MMeduza★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:56Original
  • Putin says Russian government will help restore logistics and warehouses damaged in Ukrainian attacks

    Russian President Vladimir Putin said logistics and warehouse facilities damaged in Ukrainian attacks should be restored with state participation. He asked the government to create a support program and rebuild the facilities at a fundamentally new technological level, while also highlighting power-grid construction as a key task.

    RussiaUkraine attackslogistics facilitiespower grids

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 13:56Original
  • Putin breaks silence on Ukraine’s attacks on Wildberries warehouses
    Putin breaks silence on Ukraine’s attacks on Wildberries warehouses

    Russian leader Vladimir Putin downplayed Ukraine’s recent attacks on Wildberries warehouses, saying they could not cause critical consequences. He nevertheless ordered the cabinet to create a program to restore damaged logistics and warehousing facilities. Ukraine’s Defense Ministry said seven of the company’s 10 largest logistics centers had been put out of action.

    RussiaUkraineWildberrieslogistics

    TThe Kyiv Independent★★★☆☆2026-08-19 13:52Original

PoliticsKim Jong-un’s sister casts doubt on Trump’s claims of secret US-North Korea talks

Donald Trump says he plans to meet Kim Jong-un later this year and suggested the two sides have communicated. Kim Yo-jong said she knew “absolutely nothing” about the alleged contact, while stressing that Washington’s hostile policy toward Pyongyang remained unchanged. Trump also claimed North Korea had 57 nuclear weapons.

US-North KoreaKim Jong-unDonald Trumpdiplomacy

TThe GuardianOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:39

Kim Jong-un’s sister casts doubt on Trump’s claims of secret US-North Korea talks
Kim Jong-un’s sister casts doubt on Trump’s claims of secret US-North Korea talks
  • North Korean leader’s sister denies talks with ‘hostile’ US
    North Korean leader’s sister denies talks with ‘hostile’ US

    Kim Yo Jong says she knows of no communication between her brother, Kim Jong Un, and US President Donald Trump, accusing Washington of maintaining a “hostile” policy toward North Korea. Trump says he gets along well with Kim and plans to meet him, after claiming Kim responded positively to a talks proposal.

    North KoreaUnited StatesDonald Trumpdiplomacy

    AAl Jazeera★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:32Original
  • Trump says he plans to meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un
    Trump says he plans to meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un

    U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he planned to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also said North Korea had 57 “very powerful” nuclear weapons.

    Donald TrumpKim Jong UnNorth Koreanuclear weapons

    RReuters★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:15Original
  • Trump says North Korea has 57 'very powerful' nuclear weapons

    US President Donald Trump said North Korea possesses 57 “very powerful” nuclear weapons. He added that he would not have allowed this if he had been president earlier, while saying he gets along very well with Kim Jong Un.

    Donald TrumpNorth Koreanuclear weaponsKim Jong Un

    TTASS★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:13Original

WorldEXCLUSIVE: Mossad chief, Syrian foreign minister discussed Turkish deployments before strikes, sources say

Mossad director Roman Gofman spoke by phone with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani last week, three people familiar with the matter said. They discussed Turkey’s military presence in Syria before the strikes.

IsraelSyriaTurkeymilitary deployments

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:35

EXCLUSIVE: Mossad chief, Syrian foreign minister discussed Turkish deployments before strikes, sources say
EXCLUSIVE: Mossad chief, Syrian foreign minister discussed Turkish deployments before strikes, sources say
  • US pressure on Israel needed for peace in Syria
    US pressure on Israel needed for peace in Syria

    With Israeli elections approaching, analysts say Benjamin Netanyahu needs a fresh escalation, undermining efforts to reduce tensions with Syria. After a suspected Israeli attack near Idlib, US Ambassador Tom Barrack proposed a communication mechanism involving Israel, Syria and Türkiye, but analysts doubt it can restrain Israel while it continues attacks and occupies Syrian territory.

    IsraelSyriaTürkiyedeconfliction

    AAl Jazeera★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:12Original

CulturePlayStation Reboots ‘Horizon Hunters Gathering’ as Live-Service Strategy Struggles

The Japanese gaming giant has canceled or rebooted most of its live-service multiplayer projects in recent years, as its strategy struggles. ‘Horizon Hunters Gathering’ is now being rebooted or canceled as part of that retreat.

PlayStationHorizon Hunters Gatheringlive-service games

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-19 17:30

PlayStation Reboots ‘Horizon Hunters Gathering’ as Live-Service Strategy Struggles
PlayStation Reboots ‘Horizon Hunters Gathering’ as Live-Service Strategy Struggles

PoliticsPutin shouldn't decide when Ukraine votes — but political ambition shouldn't either

Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov’s call not to let Putin determine when Ukrainians elect their government has reignited a contentious debate over wartime elections. The article argues that prolonged war demands extreme caution: most Ukrainians favor postponement until martial law ends, and experts say at least six months would be needed after a sustained ceasefire to prepare.

Ukrainewartime electionsdemocracymartial law

TThe Kyiv IndependentOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:25

Putin shouldn't decide when Ukraine votes — but political ambition shouldn't either
Putin shouldn't decide when Ukraine votes — but political ambition shouldn't either

PoliticsKhmara appointed defense minister by Zelensky’s Western patrons, expert says

Sergey Yurchenko, a lawmaker from the Zaporozhye Region, said Yevgeny Khmara’s appointment as Ukraine’s defense minister was imposed by Vladimir Zelensky’s Western patrons rather than decided by Zelensky alone. He said the change would not alter the situation at the front or internationally.

Ukrainedefense ministerZelenskyypolitical appointment

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:22

Khmara appointed defense minister by Zelensky’s Western patrons, expert says
  • West intends to monitor Ukraine war financing with Khmara’s help, expert says

    Military expert Vitaly Kiselyov says Western curators intend to track funds for combat operations following Yevgeny Khmara’s appointment as Ukraine’s defense minister, amid claims that money is being dispersed in different directions. He says the US and Europe are monitoring every personnel appointment in Ukraine, including cabinet posts.

    Ukrainedefense minister appointmentwar financingWestern oversight

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 17:00Original
  • Readiness to ask no questions led Khmara to defense minister’s seat, DPR politician says

    Alexey Muratov, head of the Donetsk regional executive committee of United Russia, said loyalty to their “master” was the main criterion for appointing Yevgeny Khmara and Andrey Sibiga as Ukraine’s defense and foreign ministers. He said Khmara’s willingness to follow orders mattered more than army readiness. The Verkhovna Rada approved both appointments on August 19.

    Ukrainecabinet appointmentsdefense ministerforeign minister

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 16:24Original
  • MP says Ukraine will continue sabotage against Russia with Khmara as defense minister

    State Duma deputy Alexander Boroday said Ukraine’s newly appointed defense minister, former SBU special-operations officer Yevgeny Khmara, would likely use greater resources to organize sabotage, terrorist attacks and ideological operations aimed at undermining social stability in Russia. Boroday said Khmara would apply methods he had used at the SBU.

    Ukrainedefense minister appointmentsabotage

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 14:18Original
  • Khmara’s appointment may bring tougher mobilization and women’s battalions to Ukraine, MP says

    Russian State Duma lawmaker and retired Major General Leonid Ivlev says Yevgeny Khmara’s appointment as Ukraine’s defense minister could bring tighter mobilization, possible women’s battalions and more frequent deployment of untrained soldiers to the front. Khmara replaced Mikhail Fyodorov, dismissed on July 14.

    Ukrainedefense minister appointmentmilitary mobilizationwomen’s battalions

    TTASS★★★★☆2026-08-19 14:17Original
  • Zelensky appoints Khmara as defense minister to intensify terror attacks on Russia, expert says

    Political scientist and international relations expert Vladimir Karasev said Volodymyr Zelensky’s appointment of Yevgeny Khmara as Ukraine’s defense minister could signal a greater focus on terrorist attacks against Russian civilians and infrastructure. Karasev accused Khmara of involvement in assassinations, attacks and war crimes, and said the move deepened Ukraine’s internal political conflict.

    Ukrainedefense minister appointmentRussiaterror attacks

    TTASS★★★★☆2026-08-19 14:15Original
  • New defense official’s appointment could lead to coup in Ukraine — expert

    Expert Alexander Pataman says parliament’s approval of Yevgeny Khmara as Ukraine’s defense minister could prompt pro-Western figure Mikhail Fyodorov to organize a coup with Western funding. He also warns that NABU suspicions could turn into criminal charges. Fyodorov has accused the government of systemic governance problems and corruption after being dismissed from the post.

    Ukrainedefense minister appointmentcoup threat

    TTASS★★★☆☆2026-08-19 14:12Original

WorldIsrael admits soldiers fired at car carrying Hind Rajab

The Israeli military acknowledged that its troops fired on a car carrying five-year-old Hind Rajab and six family members in Gaza in 2024, ordering a criminal investigation. It also admitted soldiers fired on a Palestine Red Crescent ambulance sent to rescue her.

IsraelGazaHind Rajabmilitary investigation

TThe GuardianOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:21

Israel admits soldiers fired at car carrying Hind Rajab
Israel admits soldiers fired at car carrying Hind Rajab
  • Israeli military probes killings of Hind Rajab and Palestinian paramedics
    Israeli military probes killings of Hind Rajab and Palestinian paramedics

    Israel’s military has announced its first criminal investigations into troop conduct during the Gaza war. They focus on the deaths of 5-year-old Hind Rajab and her family, as well as 15 Palestinian paramedics, while three other attacks that killed aid workers from World Central Kitchen and Doctors Without Borders will not be criminally investigated.

    IsraelGazacriminal investigationsPalestinian paramedics

    FFrance 24★★★★☆2026-08-19 15:47Original
  • Israel admits firing on car carrying Hind Rajab, symbol of Gaza’s suffering
    Israel admits firing on car carrying Hind Rajab, symbol of Gaza’s suffering

    Israel’s military has opened a criminal investigation into the 2024 killing of five-year-old Hind Rajab and, for the first time, admitted that troops fired at the car in which she was trapped. Rajab’s grandmother said an international inquiry was needed, while the report noted that such investigations rarely result in convictions.

    Hind RajabGazaIsraeli militarycriminal investigation

    AAl Jazeera★★★★☆2026-08-19 15:44Original
  • Israeli army launches criminal probe into troops’ killing of five-year-old Hind Rajab
    Israeli army launches criminal probe into troops’ killing of five-year-old Hind Rajab

    The Israeli military said Wednesday it will open internal criminal investigations into troops’ 2024 killing of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab and six relatives, as well as the 2025 deaths of 15 medics and humanitarian workers. Israeli rights groups warn such investigations rarely result in convictions.

    Israeli militaryHind Rajabcriminal investigationPalestinians

    FFrance 24★★★★☆2026-08-19 13:07Original
  • Israeli army orders criminal investigation into killing of Hind Rajab in Gaza
    Israeli army orders criminal investigation into killing of Hind Rajab in Gaza

    Israel’s military has ordered a criminal investigation into the death of six-year-old Palestinian Hind Rajab in Gaza. She survived an attack on a family vehicle in Gaza City in January 2024 and spent hours speaking with paramedics before her body was found days later alongside relatives and two rescuers.

    GazaHind RajabIsraeli militarycriminal investigation

    BBBC News★★★★☆2026-08-19 12:18Original
  • Israeli military acknowledges firing on car carrying 5-year-old Hind Rajab, opens criminal probe

    The Israeli military acknowledged firing on a car carrying 5-year-old Hind Rajab in Gaza, reversing earlier denials. It has opened a criminal investigation into the January 2024 killing.

    Israeli militaryGazacriminal investigation

    CCNN★★★★☆2026-08-19 12:01Original
  • Israeli military to open criminal probes into two Gaza attacks
    Israeli military to open criminal probes into two Gaza attacks

    The Israel Defense Forces says it will launch criminal investigations into the 2024 killing of five-year-old Hind Rajab and the 2025 deaths of 15 Palestinian paramedics in Gaza. The decision followed a review of 150 incidents involving Israeli troops; three other attacks involving aid workers will not receive criminal probes.

    Israel Defense ForcesGazacriminal investigationsPalestinians

    DDW★★★★☆2026-08-19 11:44Original
  • Israel’s military to open criminal probes into 2 Gaza attacks on Palestinians
    Israel’s military to open criminal probes into 2 Gaza attacks on Palestinians

    Two high-profile attacks on Palestinians during the Gaza war are set to undergo criminal investigations, according to Israel’s military.

    IsraelGaza warcriminal probes

    TThe Associated Press★★★☆☆2026-08-19 11:23Original

WorldDialogue with US will be fruitless unless Iran is combat-ready, Majlis speaker says

Iranian Majlis Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran must remain prepared for confrontation or any contact and dialogue with the United States will be fruitless. He blamed Washington and the war it unleashed for regional instability and disrupted trade routes, and said the US will lose credibility whether it withdraws from or continues the war.

IranUnited Statesdiplomacyregional stability

TTASSOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-19 17:18

Dialogue with US will be fruitless unless Iran is combat-ready, Majlis speaker says
  • Trump leaves open possibility of resuming US-Iran talks

    US President Donald Trump said Washington could resume negotiations with Iran at some point, while describing the current situation as “very good.” He repeated that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons and said the United States has complete control of the Strait of Hormuz.

    Donald TrumpUS-Iran relationsnuclear weaponsStrait of Hormuz

    TTASS★★★★☆2026-08-19 16:39Original