Overnight, Russian strikes utilizing glide bombs and missiles targeted both a prison and medical facilities in Ukraine, resulting in at least 27 fatalities across the country. In response to these attacks, U.S. President Donald Trump shortened his deadline for Russia to end the killing, threatening sanctions and tariffs if it does not comply within ten days. Despite Trump’s warnings, the Kremlin has indicated that it will continue to pursue its goals in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Ukraine launched long-range drones targeting Russian infrastructure, including an attack on a railway station in the Rostov region.
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The University of California San Diego School of Medicine published findings that individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD) are at a significantly higher risk of developing oral cancer within five years. This study underscores the importance of investigating the potential health consequences associated with cannabis use, particularly as its prevalence increases. With millions reporting daily or near-daily use, and a notable percentage developing CUD, further research is crucial to understand the long-term health impacts of cannabis. This recent study sought to explore the relationship between CUD and oral cancer, a disease for which other substances like tobacco are known to pose significant risk.
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Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has refuted Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s claims that Israel is withholding aid from Gaza, labeling the accusations as “a lie”. This comes as a global hunger monitor issued an alert warning that famine is “playing out” in the Gaza Strip, highlighting widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease. The Israeli government, however, continues to deny the severity of the humanitarian crisis, while the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) indicates that famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption and acute malnutrition in certain areas. Despite Israel’s claims of open aid access, restrictions remain, contrasting with the urgent needs of a population facing escalating food insecurity and mortality.
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According to the directors of the Oscar-winning documentary *No Other Land*, Palestinian community leader Awdah Hathaleen was killed by a sanctioned Israeli settler in the West Bank. The suspect, Yinon Levi, who was sanctioned by the UK and EU, was reportedly released under house arrest. The killing occurred in front of a community center and was captured on video. The directors of *No Other Land*, which documented the struggle of Masafer Yatta residents, have expressed their grief, and the incident underscores the rise in violence in the West Bank.
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Polish authorities have detained 32 individuals suspected of coordinating with Russia to carry out acts of sabotage. The group includes a Pole, Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, and a Colombian man. The Colombian man is accused of arson attacks in Poland last year at Russia’s direction, potentially facing up to life in prison. One person has been convicted, with the others awaiting trial, but details regarding the alleged sabotage remain undisclosed.
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The U.K. announced it would recognize a Palestinian state in September, contingent on Israel’s actions. This follows mounting domestic pressure and a shift in the international landscape, with France already planning similar recognition. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK would only proceed with recognition if Israel takes substantive steps towards a ceasefire, allows UN aid, and commits to a long-term peace. This decision has been met with rejection from Israel’s foreign ministry, which views it as a reward for Hamas and a hindrance to peace efforts. The UK government will assess the parties’ actions in September before making a final decision on recognition.
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Aeroflot, the Russian airline, suffered a significant cyberattack resulting in widespread disruptions, flight cancellations, and substantial financial losses. According to analysts, the total losses could reach up to US$50 million, accounting for recovery costs, halted sales, and reputational damage. The attack, launched by hacker groups Silent Crow and Cyber Partisans BY, targeted Aeroflot’s IT infrastructure, leading to the destruction of thousands of servers. Recovery efforts are expected to be lengthy, potentially taking up to a year, and have already resulted in a decline in Aerofot shares.
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Palestinian activist and journalist Awdah Hathaleen, who contributed to the Oscar-winning documentary “No Other Land,” was killed during an attack by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The incident, captured on video, allegedly shows settler Yinon Levi firing a gun, leading to his arrest for questioning. The killing adds to the increasing violence against Palestinians, where accountability for settler actions is rare. Hathaleen had recently documented settler encroachment and displacement efforts, highlighting the community’s struggles.
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The FDA has approved lenacapavir, marketed as Yeztugo, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injection offering nearly complete protection against HIV. This capsid inhibitor, recognized as a major scientific breakthrough, has the potential to end the 44-year-long epidemic. To ensure global access, the manufacturer has entered royalty-free licensing agreements with generic drug producers and will supply the drug at no profit to countries in need, in partnership with the Global Fund. This preventative medication aims to transform HIV prevention by addressing adherence and stigma challenges associated with previous PrEP regimens.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky approved legislation on July 29th permitting Ukrainian citizens over 60 to volunteer for military service during martial law, addressing manpower shortages. This law allows those over 60 to sign one-year contracts, serving in non-combat roles if they meet medical requirements and unit commander approval. Recruits will undergo a two-month probationary period, and contracts will automatically end with the cessation of martial law. This measure, alongside lowering the draft age and offering incentives, aims to fill critical staffing gaps in technical and support units.
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John Q. Hosedrinker