Ukraine has announced its desire for the next peace summit to be held in the Global South, following the first summit in Switzerland that excluded Russia and China. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed openness to Russian participation in the upcoming talks, despite ongoing hostilities. The Kremlin, however, remains resistant to negotiations, insisting on territorial concessions that Kyiv deems unacceptable. The announcement follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kyiv, where he emphasized India's stance against compromising Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Kyiv continues to seek diplomatic engagement with countries in the Global South, including potential discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

An American man died after ice collapsed during a glacier tour in Iceland's Breidamerkurjökull glacier. His partner, also a US citizen, was injured but is expected to recover. The accident happened while the group was exploring an ice cave. Initially, rescuers feared more people were trapped, but after an extensive search, they found no one else. Over 200 first responders participated in the rescue operation. The police confirmed the tour guide followed safety procedures, but unexpected events in the unpredictable landscape led to the tragedy.

Qaid Farhan Alkadi, a 52-year-old Israeli Bedouin kidnapped by Hamas on 7 October, has been reunited with his family. The Israeli military claimed Alkadi was rescued from a tunnel in Gaza during a complex operation, though some reports suggest he may have initially escaped on his own. Alkadi, who was working as a security guard at a kibbutz when abducted, was taken to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba for checks. His family expressed immense relief and joy at his safe return, as Israel continues efforts to rescue other hostages still held in Gaza.

The Notting Hill Carnival in London saw eight people stabbed and hundreds arrested over the weekend. The Metropolitan Police reported five stabbings on the final day and three the previous day, with three victims in critical condition. Officers made at least 230 arrests, including 49 for weapon possession, and seized three firearms. Despite the violence, the carnival, celebrating British Afro-Caribbean culture, attracted around a million attendees. The Met's Deputy Assistant Commissioner criticized the recurring violence and urged witnesses to report crimes. The event remains a vibrant celebration for most attendees.

Canada is experiencing widespread protests as over 70,000 international students face deportation due to recent immigration policy changes. The students, mainly from India, are rallying across provinces, demanding an extension of work permits and a path to permanent residency. The Canadian government’s new cap on student permits and reduced residency nominations have intensified the crisis. Critics argue these policies unfairly target students while overlooking broader systemic issues. Advocacy groups urge the government to address these concerns and provide clear pathways to residency for those who have invested significantly in their education and the economy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the successful test of Ukraine's first domestically produced ballistic missile. This milestone follows recent large-scale Russian bombings across Ukraine that resulted in casualties and damaged energy infrastructure. Zelensky's announcement, made during a press conference in Kyiv, highlights Ukraine's efforts to bolster its arms industry and reduce reliance on Western military aid. The country has also introduced its own long-range "rocket drone" and signed agreements with Western firms for small arms and ammunition production.

Downing Street officials are drafting a media plan to announce the death of Larry the cat, the 17-year-old 'chief mouser' who has become a beloved fixture at Number 10. Known for his presence during major events, Larry's passing is anticipated to be handled with sensitivity. Sources indicate that press materials and photos are being prepared in advance. Larry, adopted by David Cameron in 2011, has outlasted five prime ministers and is cherished by the public. He is noted for his role in greeting guests and inspecting the premises.

Israeli Noa Argamani, who was kidnapped by Hamas during a music festival on October 7, celebrated her freedom with a vibrant ‘Return to Life’ party. Argamani, who was held for nearly three weeks, marked her release with a rave, sharing her joy and relief. The event aimed to highlight her campaign for the release of other hostages and raise awareness about their plight. "I want to dance again with my kidnapped boyfriend," Argamani said, emphasizing her hope for a happy reunion and her ongoing advocacy for others in similar situations.

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, at Le Bourget Airport near Paris. The arrest is part of a broad investigation into criminal activities on Telegram, including child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraud. Initiated on July 8, the probe focuses on illegal activities facilitated through the platform. Durov, 39, arrived from Azerbaijan and is currently in custody, potentially until August 28, while investigations continue. He has not been formally charged but could face up to 20 years in prison if implicated. The inquiry involves cybercrime and anti-fraud experts examining charges of complicity in these crimes.

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan has introduced new restrictive laws targeting women, enforcing strict behavior and dress codes. Under the new rules, women must cover their entire bodies, including their faces, in public, making the hijab unacceptable. Public singing, reading aloud, or reciting by women is banned, as their voices are considered "intimate." Women are also prohibited from looking at unrelated men. The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, which issued these regulations, can impose penalties for violations, including warnings, property confiscation, or up to three days of detention. These laws are part of the Taliban's ongoing efforts to suppress women's rights since their 2021 return to power.