Over 1,000 Ukrainian troops crossed into Russia, advancing 30 km into the Kursk Oblast from Sumy, Ukraine. The incursion, one of the most significant since the war began, caught Russia off-guard. Kyiv's forces used artillery and drones to breach Russian defenses. Russia scrambled troops, including Chechen units, to halt the advance. Ukrainian forces have been spotted in several Russian towns, but their objectives remain unclear. Russia declared a "federal emergency" and launched retaliatory strikes in eastern Ukraine, causing multiple casualties. The U.S. is closely monitoring the situation but maintains its policy on weapon use.

Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra is likely to undergo surgery to address a persistent groin injury that impacted his performance at the Paris Olympics, where he secured a silver medal. Chopra, who has been battling the injury since 2022, delayed surgery to compete in Paris. Following the Olympics, his coaching team will see significant changes, with biomechanics expert Dr. Klaus Bartonietz working with him only part-time. Chopra is expected to upgrade his backroom staff as he prepares for future competitions. The surgery will be performed by one of three top doctors identified for the procedure.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is facing criticism for allegedly using Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem’s victory for political gain. In a viral video, a person congratulates Sharif for Nadeem's win, implying the credit belongs to the PM. Indian government sources condemned the act, stating, "This shows how they are demeaning their own players." Arshad Nadeem, who won Pakistan's first individual Olympic gold in 32 years, was praised for his hard work and dedication. The incident has sparked outrage, with many accusing the Pakistan government of having a "feudal mindset."

Manish Sisodia, a senior AAP leader, walked out of Tihar Jail after 17 months in custody. The Supreme Court granted him bail in the Delhi excise policy scam cases. Supporters and party workers gathered to welcome him with slogans. Sisodia said, "I was not alone in jail for the past 17 months; every Delhiite and schoolchild was with me emotionally." He expressed gratitude to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and thanked the Supreme Court for upholding the Constitution. The court reaffirmed that "bail is a rule, and jail is an exception," calling his detention unjust.

A Banksy artwork, featuring a howling wolf on a satellite dish, was stolen just hours after its reveal in Peckham, south London, UK. The piece was the fourth in a series of animal-themed works by the famous street artist. Witnesses reported seeing men dismantling the dish and taking it away, with one bystander being assaulted when he filmed the theft. The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are investigating the incident but have made no arrests. Banksy’s press team said they believe the artwork has been stolen. The series is expected to conclude this week.

Air India has indefinitely suspended all flights to and from Tel Aviv due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The decision comes after the airline had temporarily halted operations earlier this year, only resuming in March. The suspension follows increased geopolitical unrest, including the assassination of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. Air India stated that the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority and offered full refunds to affected travelers. Many international airlines have also reduced or canceled flights to Israel as the conflict continues to escalate.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the newly appointed interim leader of Bangladesh, paid tribute to the country’s fallen independence heroes on Friday. Yunus, who returned to Bangladesh after violent protests ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is tasked with restoring order and guiding the nation back to democracy. In a ceremony with student and civil society leaders, Yunus laid a wreath at a memorial for those who died in the 1971 liberation war. He emphasized the need for unity and peace after weeks of unrest that claimed 455 lives. Elections are expected in the coming months.

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda called for wrestler Vinesh Phogat to be nominated to the Rajya Sabha. However, Phogat is ineligible due to her age. She is currently 29 years old and will turn 30 on August 25, four days after the nomination cutoff for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections on September 3. According to the rules, candidates must be at least 30 years old. While Hooda’s proposal has gained support, Phogat’s family criticized the move, calling it a political stunt, and pointed out that similar recognition was not given to other successful wrestlers in the past.

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to remain in India longer than planned, according to government sources. Hasina fled Bangladesh following violent protests and sought asylum in the UK, but her plans did not work out. The United States also reportedly revoked her visa. Without asylum or refugee status, her stay in India will be on a visa. Hasina is exploring other options, including the UAE and European countries. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, expressed hope for her return to Bangladesh once democracy is restored.

A Russian attack on a supermarket in Kostyantynivka, a town in eastern Ukraine, killed 10 people and injured 35 others on Friday. The town, located just 13 kilometers from Russian positions, faces frequent strikes. Ukraine's Interior Minister, Igor Klymenko, confirmed the casualties and shared images of firefighters working through the wreckage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed that Russia would be held accountable. The attack follows a Ukrainian incursion into Russia's western Kursk region. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with fears of more people trapped under the rubble.