Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged India to support Ukraine's fight against Russia rather than maintaining a neutral stance. Following talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kyiv, Zelenskyy emphasized that India’s support could significantly impact ending the war. He praised Modi’s visit as historic and expressed a desire to visit India soon. Zelenskyy also noted that Ukraine is open to sharing technology and fostering economic ties with India. He criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for not respecting Modi and reiterated the need for India’s involvement in global peace efforts.

Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell declared that "the time has come" for an interest rate cut, leading to a surge in the pound's value against the US dollar. While Powell did not specify the timing or size of the rate cuts, financial markets anticipate a quarter-point reduction at the Fed's next meeting in mid-September. This would be the first rate cut since the Fed's hiking cycle began in 2022. The announcement pushed the pound above $1.32, benefiting UK holidaymakers and reducing the cost of UK government debt. Powell emphasized that the pace of cuts will depend on incoming data.

Actor John Abraham has expressed his strong reaction to the horrific rape and murder of a Kolkata doctor. In his first public comments, Abraham warned, "I’ll tell the boys to behave, otherwise I’ll tear them apart," urging better values from parents for their sons. He condemned the lack of safety for women and children in India and emphasized that men should act as protectors, not threats. His remarks come in the wake of the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, which has ignited widespread protests and calls for justice.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Ukraine, becoming the first Indian leader to do so. During his visit, he shared an emotional hug with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy while visiting a memorial for children killed in the ongoing conflict. This gesture comes six weeks after Modi's controversial hug with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which drew criticism from Ukraine and the West. Zelenskyy had criticized Modi for embracing Putin, calling him "the world's most bloody criminal." Modi's visit highlights India's delicate balancing act between maintaining relations with Russia and expressing support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing war.

A volcanic eruption on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, the sixth in one year, has devastated the fishing town of Grindavik. Lava burst from a fissure on Thursday, forcing the evacuation of remaining residents. The town, located about forty kilometers from Reykjavik, has been severely damaged by seismic activity, with homes and roads overtaken by molten rock. Scientists warn that eruptions may continue for months or even years as Iceland faces its most destructive volcanic activity in half a century. Protective barriers have been erected, but residents remain on high alert.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, follows his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Modi's trip to Kyiv, the first by an Indian Prime Minister, highlights India's delicate balancing act between its long-standing relationship with Russia and its growing ties with the West. Zelensky previously criticized Modi's visit to Moscow, but analysts suggest this trip underscores India's commitment to strategic autonomy. Modi aims to strengthen relations with both Russia and the West, especially as India enhances its engagement with Europe.

Ed Sheeran has sparked fresh controversy with his neighbors after sharing an Instagram video of himself swimming in his Suffolk estate’s "wildlife pond." The pop star originally received approval to build the pond for conservation purposes, but concerns have lingered that it could be used recreationally. In the video, Sheeran dives into the pond after a run and sauna, which has angered some neighbors. They feel he is "taking the mick" and that the pond has ruined their outlook. Sheeran previously defended the pond, stating people should "mind their own business."

During his historic visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India's commitment to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict through "dialogue and diplomacy." External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated, "The Prime Minister stressed India's willingness to contribute in all ways possible." Modi also discussed his recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasized that "no problem can be resolved on a battlefield." While in Kyiv, Modi met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and paid tribute to the children lost in the war. This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Ukraine's independence in 1991.

Sanjay Roy, accused of raping and murdering a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata, has been "framed," according to his mother. She believes “many people” were involved in the crime. Despite his confession, Roy’s family doubts his guilt. His sister stated, “If he has done this, he should be punished.” Investigations revealed Roy's disturbing psychological profile, including severe addiction to pornography. The CBI continues to explore if others were involved, as technical evidence places Roy at the crime scene. The former principal of RG Kar Medical College is also under scrutiny in the case.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to a statue of Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, on Friday. The statue, located in the 'Oasis of Peace' park, was unveiled on Gandhi's 151st birth anniversary in 2020. It stands as a symbol of peace and the deepening ties between India and Ukraine. Modi highlighted Gandhi’s message of non-violence and its relevance to today's global challenges. The statue was first unveiled by Indian Ambassador Partha Satpathy and Ukrainian officials as part of the 151st birth anniversary celebrations.