Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia carried out a large-scale overnight aerial assault on Saturday, striking residential neighbourhoods across seven districts of Kyiv and killing at least nine people while injuring dozens more. In a statement posted on X, Zelenskyy said the attack involved 35 missiles, including 27 ballistic missiles, along with 185 attack drones of different types. Although Kyiv was the primary focus of the assault, the strikes also affected the Dnipro, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Poltava regions.
According to the Ukrainian president, the bombardment caused significant destruction across the capital. A total of 18 residential buildings, a school, critical infrastructure, and the Lithuanian Embassy sustained damage. Emergency crews continued rescue and firefighting operations throughout the city as authorities assessed the full extent of the destruction. Expressing condolences to the victims' families, Zelenskyy said emergency medical teams were treating those injured. He also highlighted Ukraine's shortage of air defence interceptors, noting that only one ballistic missile was shot down because of limited Patriot missile system ammunition.
The Ukrainian leader argued that the shortage of interceptor missiles enables Russia to continue launching deadly ballistic attacks and renewed his appeal to international partners for faster delivery of additional air defence systems. He stressed that such equipment is urgently needed on the battlefield rather than remaining in reserve stockpiles.
Zelenskyy also revealed that he had spoken by phone with US Vice President JD Vance. The conversation followed his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House and focused on strengthening Ukraine's air defence capabilities as well as the wider economic impact of the ongoing war. Zelenskyy said both sides agreed to maintain close coordination, with air defence—particularly additional Patriot interceptors—remaining Ukraine's highest priority. He thanked the United States for its continued support during the conflict.
Russia's Defence Ministry, as cited by Russian state media outlet RT, said its forces carried out a coordinated overnight operation using precision ground- and sea-launched weapons along with long-range drones. Moscow claimed the strikes targeted Ukrainian defence industry facilities and logistics centres in and around Kyiv involved in the production, storage, and transportation of missiles, drones, radar equipment, and electronic warfare systems. Russian media reported that explosions began shortly after 1:00 a.m. local time in Kyiv and continued in several waves until around 3:00 a.m., as the large-scale attack unfolded across the Ukrainian capital.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@ZelenskyyUa.
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday approved the "Samudra Manthan" National Offshore Exploration Scheme, a major initiative worth ₹84,084 crore aimed at strengthening India's offshore energy sector. The programme, to be implemented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), will remain in effect until 2030-31.
Designed to unlock India's offshore hydrocarbon resources, the scheme focuses on expanding exploration through advanced seismic surveys, data processing and interpretation, as well as faster exploration drilling in deepwater and ultra-deepwater regions. It also includes scientific drilling in unexplored sedimentary basins, development of shared offshore production and evacuation infrastructure, and the creation of an integrated Oil and Gas Manufacturing and Services Zone.
According to the government, Samudra Manthan represents a significant milestone in strengthening India's energy security. It is expected to boost domestic oil and gas exploration, encourage technological innovation, and contribute to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat by enhancing the country's self-reliance in the energy sector.
Beyond exploration activities, the scheme provides dedicated support for digital programme management, skill development, adoption of modern technologies, stakeholder collaboration, and global outreach. These measures are intended to build a comprehensive ecosystem that accelerates offshore exploration and production across the country.
Officials estimate that the initiative could help add more than 600 million tonnes of oil equivalent (MTOE) to India's reserves. It is also expected to increase offshore exploration activity, raise domestic crude oil and natural gas production, generate employment opportunities, strengthen indigenous manufacturing capabilities, and promote the growth of offshore technology and service industries. The programme is also likely to attract substantial investments throughout the exploration and production value chain, creating long-term opportunities for businesses while supporting innovation and economic expansion.
Industry experts believe the initiative reflects the government's strong commitment to revitalising India's exploration and production (E&P) sector. By reducing geological risks and improving access to reliable exploration data, the scheme could pave the way for new hydrocarbon discoveries and encourage greater participation from private investors.
Rajnish Gupta, Partner in the Tax and Economic Policy Group at EY India, said the emphasis on shared production and evacuation infrastructure is particularly significant. He noted that such infrastructure can improve the commercial viability of offshore projects by lowering development costs, making even smaller discoveries economically feasible. According to him, this approach will support India's efforts to reduce its dependence on energy imports while building a stronger and more resilient energy ecosystem.
The approval of Samudra Manthan comes as part of a broader series of reforms undertaken by the government in the upstream oil and gas sector. These measures include opening nearly all offshore acreage for exploration, updating the legal and contractual framework governing exploration activities, and enhancing the National Data Repository to improve access to geological information for investors and exploration companies.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Bloomberg.
A teenage girl who was booked for allegedly making abusive remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent protest has issued a public apology after a video of her statement went viral on social media. In the video, the girl identifies herself as a 15-year-old and appeals for forgiveness, calling the incident the "first and last mistake" of her life.
The controversy began after videos allegedly showing the teenager making objectionable remarks against the Prime Minister during a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar surfaced online. The clips quickly gained traction across social media platforms, drawing strong reactions from political circles as well as the general public. Following complaints, a case was registered, and the matter was taken up by law enforcement authorities.
In her apology video, the teenager appears emotional as she folds her hands and expresses regret over her actions. She says she never intended for the situation to escalate and apologises to Prime Minister Modi and the people of India. "I am just 15 years old. Please forgive me. This is the first and last mistake of my life," she says in the video, while assuring that she will not repeat such behaviour in the future. The girl also claims that she was influenced by people around her at the protest and acted without fully understanding the consequences of her words. Her apology has since become one of the most discussed videos on social media, with users expressing sharply divided opinions.
According to reports, the case was registered after complaints were filed over the alleged remarks. Delhi Police are examining the matter after a Zero FIR was transferred to the appropriate jurisdiction. Officials are expected to review the evidence and proceed in accordance with the law before taking any further action.
The case has also drawn attention because of the girl's claim regarding her age. While she identifies herself as a 15-year-old in the apology video, some media reports have indicated that official documents mention a different age. Authorities have not yet clarified the discrepancy, and the issue is likely to be examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident has reignited debate over the limits of political expression, responsible conduct during protests, and the impact of social media in amplifying such controversies. Many users have argued that the girl's public apology reflects genuine remorse and that her age should be taken into account during legal proceedings. Others maintain that abusive language directed at constitutional authorities cannot be overlooked and that accountability should apply irrespective of political beliefs. Legal experts note that cases involving minors are governed by separate provisions under Indian law, making age verification an important aspect of the investigation. The final course of action will depend on the findings of the authorities and the applicable legal framework.
As the investigation continues, the viral apology video has become a focal point in a broader discussion on free speech, public responsibility, and the consequences of remarks made during politically charged events. The episode also serves as a reminder that in the age of social media, a few moments captured on camera can quickly evolve into a nationwide controversy with lasting legal and public implications.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from TOI.
A discarded SpaceX rocket stage is expected to slam into the Moon at high speed in the coming months, creating an impact that scientists say could offer a rare chance to study how fresh craters form on the lunar surface. The rocket stage, which completed its mission after launching two lunar landers in early 2025, has been drifting through deep space for months. Without enough fuel to return to Earth or steer into a stable orbit, the spent booster gradually fell under the combined gravitational influence of the Earth and the Moon, eventually placing it on a collision path.
According to current tracking estimates, the rocket stage is expected to strike the Moon at nearly 5,400 mph (around 8,700 km/h). The impact is projected to occur near the Einstein Crater, located on the Moon's far western edge. Astronomers believe the collision will carve out a new crater measuring roughly 27 metres (90 feet) across, while ejecting a plume of lunar dust and rocks into space. Although the event poses no threat to Earth, it is expected to provide researchers with valuable data on lunar geology and impact dynamics.
Scientists say such events are rarely predictable. Unlike naturally occurring meteorite strikes, the path, speed and approximate location of this rocket impact are already known, allowing observatories and lunar spacecraft to prepare in advance and monitor the event closely. Researchers hope to analyse the fresh crater to better understand the Moon's surface composition, the behaviour of debris after high-speed impacts, and how similar collisions may affect future lunar infrastructure. The findings could prove valuable as multiple countries and private companies continue planning long-term missions and potential human settlements on the Moon.
Several orbiting spacecraft are also expected to image the impact site before and after the collision, enabling scientists to compare surface changes in unprecedented detail. The incident has also renewed attention on the growing issue of space debris beyond Earth's orbit. While many satellites in low-Earth orbit are designed for controlled re-entry after completing their missions, rocket stages used for deep-space missions often remain adrift for years unless specific disposal plans are in place.
Experts say that as lunar exploration accelerates, responsible management of spent spacecraft and rocket hardware will become increasingly important to reduce unnecessary debris around the Moon and other celestial bodies. While the upcoming impact is accidental, scientists view it as a unique research opportunity. Every well-documented collision helps improve understanding of planetary surfaces, strengthens computer models used in space exploration, and supports preparations for future robotic and human missions beyond Earth.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.
India and Lesotho reviewed the full spectrum of their bilateral relations during the 6th session of the Joint Bilateral Commission for Cooperation (JBCC) held in New Delhi on July 30, 2026. The discussions focused on development partnership, capacity building, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and coordination at the United Nations and other multilateral platforms. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in areas such as trade, education, agriculture, food security, and tourism. India also invited Lesotho to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). The two countries agreed to hold the next JBCC meeting in Maseru on mutually decided dates, further strengthening their long-standing partnership.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@MEAIndia.
In this edition of Made in SG, Melanie Oliveiro spotlights W Optics, a Singapore-based vision care specialist and optical retail chain. W Optics CEO Jonathan Wong shares the company's journey, explaining how his father, Francis Wong, founded the business and eventually entrusted him with leading its next phase of growth. Joining the discussion is senior optometrist and manager Oh Shwu Ji, who offers insights into common eye health concerns while highlighting the latest trends in eyewear design and prescription glasses.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Rescue teams in Japan have continued their search operations overnight as they race to find survivors following a powerful earthquake that struck Kyushu Island. Several people remain unaccounted for after the 7.1-magnitude quake caused buildings to collapse, with many feared trapped beneath the debris of a shopping centre. CNA Senior Correspondent Michiyo Ishida joins Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman to provide the latest updates on the rescue efforts and situation on the ground.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Andy Burnham is set to welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as his first international guest, underscoring the UK's continued commitment to Ukraine. As Burnham unveils his agenda to address long-standing issues such as social care, Pippa Crerar and Jessica Elgot examine whether his proposals can deliver meaningful change.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
India's education minister has stepped down, and the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is celebrating the development as a significant win. What started as a humorous online campaign has rapidly transformed into one of the country's most closely watched youth-driven movements. By tapping into widespread concerns over unemployment, limited opportunities, and the lack of political representation, the movement has captured national attention. In this discussion, Genevieve Woo speaks with correspondent Neha Poonia about how a campaign centred on the unlikely symbol of a cockroach managed to influence India's political conversation and what it says about a generation determined to make its voice heard despite the odds.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
