News for 2026-08-20

GUR reports deep strike attacks on airfields with drones, 'Nebo-U' radar systems, and an oil terminal in the Krasnodar Krai

08/21/2026, 02:59

On the night of August 20, GUR operators together with the Defense Forces hit airfields with drones in Donetsk and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, two radar stations, and the 'Tamanneftegaz' marine oil terminal in the Krasnodar Krai.

Read more →

Ukrainian women in the EU will have to prove they are not 'draft dodgers': EC confirms gender neutrality of new temporary protection rules

08/21/2026, 02:53

European Commission spokesperson Lammert stated that the EU Council's decision on temporary protection makes no distinction by gender: Ukrainian women liable for military service will also have to prove they are not evading service.

Read more →

Lithuanian FM: Ukraine must become a full EU member by 2030

08/21/2026, 02:46

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys called for Ukraine to be granted full EU membership by 2030, reacting to a new massive Russian attack on Kyiv and the region.

Read more →

FBU calls for review of the draft law on the environmental tax for waste disposal: changes are premature and contradict EU practice

08/21/2026, 02:41

The FBU has called on the Ministry of Economy to review the draft law on the environmental tax for waste disposal, considering it premature and contrary to EU practice.

Read more →

Carlos Sainz signs new multi-year contract with Williams: British team bets on stability

08/21/2026, 02:34

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has signed a new multi-year contract with Williams, securing the stability of the driver lineup. The press office has not disclosed the exact terms of the agreement.

Read more →

How to spot an unreliable person in a few minutes: behavioral markers they keep silent about

08/21/2026, 02:28

Styler (RBC-Ukraine) lists behavioral markers of unreliable people: retelling other people's secrets, shifting blame, confusion in details, and a discrepancy between words and deeds. These signs help to recognize an unreliable interlocutor in time.

Read more →

Defense Procurement Agency Tripled Armament Budget to 1.7 Trillion UAH: Zhumadilov Reveals Record Drone Deliveries Before Resignation

08/21/2026, 02:23

The head of AOZ DOT Arsen Zhumadilov stated that the armament resource grew from 633.3 billion to 1.717 trillion UAH, and international financing increased 16 times. In the first half of 2026, the army received more than 2.4 million FPV drones.

Read more →

Google teaches Search and Gemini to learn, not cheat: 3D models, interactive charts, and background reports

08/21/2026, 02:15

Google introduced AI learning tools for Search and Gemini: interactive visualizations, 3D models in chat, background research reports, and a unified learning hub for the start of the school year.

Read more →

Ukraine and Australia to eliminate double taxation: Cabinet of Ministers approves ratification of convention

08/21/2026, 02:09

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a draft law on the ratification of the convention with Australia on the elimination of double taxation. The document will define the rules for taxing the income of residents of both countries.

Read more →

"There Was No Conflict": Zhumadilov Refutes Rumors of a Showdown with the Team of Former Defense Minister Fedorov

08/21/2026, 02:03

The head of the Defense Procurement Agency, Arsen Zhumadilov, refuted rumors of a conflict with the team of former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov, stating that no confrontation over tenders existed.

Read more →

Strike on Media Space: 'We Are Ukraine' TV Station Office Damaged Following Russia's Night Attack on Kyiv

08/21/2026, 01:57

As a result of Russia's massive attack on Kyiv on the night of August 20, the office of the 'We Are Ukraine' TV channel was damaged: windows were blown out, the newsroom and part of the ceiling were destroyed. Employees were not injured and continue to work.

Read more →

Defense Forces Strike TANEKO Refinery in Tatarstan and Oil Terminal in Krasnodar Krai — General Staff

08/21/2026, 01:50

On the night of August 20, the Defense Forces of Ukraine struck the TANEKO refinery in Nizhnekamsk and the Tamanneftegaz terminal in Kuban. Fires broke out at both facilities; the extent of the damage is being established.

Read more →

Kyiv prepares a winter "shield" for the elderly and those with limited mobility: the city hall verifies needs and pre-books places in care homes

08/21/2026, 01:44

The Kyiv city hall is verifying the needs of elderly and immobile residents before the heating season: already more than 1,200 pensioners and 400 children with disabilities are ready for temporary relocation in case of power or heat outages.

Read more →

Second Wave of Fuel Collapse: Russia Urgently Buys Expensive Gasoline and Jet Fuel in Asia

08/21/2026, 01:38

In August, Russia is increasing imports of gasoline and jet fuel from Asia to 270,000 tons against the backdrop of a second wave of fuel shortages after strikes on refineries. Imported fuel is 40% more expensive than domestic fuel and is driving up retail prices.

Read more →

Polyakova, Anatolich, and Mogilevskaya: High-Profile Car Accidents Involving Ukrainian Celebrities in 2026

08/21/2026, 01:32

In 2026, Olya Polyakova, Anatoliy Anatolich, Natalya Mogilevskaya, Shumei, and Anastasia Tkachenko were involved in road accidents. We tell you who was injured and where the collisions took place.

Read more →

Kremlin Blames Kyiv Again for Sabotaging Peace: Peskov on the Status of Trump Envoys' Visit to Russia

08/21/2026, 01:24

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated there are no prerequisites for a peaceful settlement, once again blaming Kyiv, and reported that the visit of Trump's envoys to Russia is currently undated.

Read more →

Operation "Themis": NABU and SAP exposed a raider scheme involving MPs and officials of the President's Office

08/21/2026, 01:16

NABU and SAP, as part of Operation "Themis", exposed a raider scheme involving MPs and officials of the President's Office. They seized assets worth hundreds of millions of hryvnias, and Mudra was fired.

Read more →

Pyshnyy Demands Government Remove Gladyschenko from Sense Bank — Hetmanets Calls for NBU Head's Dismissal

08/21/2026, 01:10

NBU Head Pyshnyy demanded the government terminate the powers of Sense Bank Supervisory Board Chairman Gladyschenko. In response, deputy Hetmanets accused the regulator of a belated reaction and called for his resignation.

Read more →

Karpaty officially sign Spanish winger Sifuentes: '2+1' contract and €260k release clause

08/21/2026, 01:03

Lviv's Karpaty have officially announced the signing of 29-year-old Spanish winger Joaquín Sifuentes, who moved from Epitsentr for €260k on a '2+1' scheme.

Read more →

«Magical Appearance» of TTPs and Risk of Supply Failures: The Ukrainian Arms Council Exposes a Systemic Glitch in Defense Procurement

08/21/2026, 00:56

The Executive Director of the Arms Council, Igor Fedirko, stated that in six months, the centers of competence prepared only 4 TTPs, while 80-85% of documents appeared on the eve of tenders. Some winners of 17 lots are refusing contracts, and delivery is shifted to 2027.

Read more →

Strikes on Slavyansk and Kramatorsk: 'Aurora' store on fire, at least 10 injured

08/21/2026, 00:39

On the morning of August 20, Russian forces attacked Slavyansk and Kramatorsk: drones and FAB-250 air bombs hit stores and infrastructure. At least 10 people were injured, and the 'Aurora' store is burning in Slavyansk.

Read more →

Russia delivers new batch of Pantsir-S SAM systems and stationary Pantsir-SMD: what is known about the upgrade

08/21/2026, 00:32

Russian military forces have received a new batch of Pantsir-S SAM systems and stationary Pantsir-SMD/SMP complexes with a combined ammunition load of up to 48 missiles. The delivery occurs against the backdrop of reports of Ukrainian drone strikes on air defense assets in Crimea and the south.

Read more →

OpenAI Introduces Private Safety Processing: Fraud Protection Without Access to Message Content

08/21/2026, 00:23

OpenAI has introduced Private Safety Processing — a system that detects fraudulent scenarios based on a series of related requests without revealing the content of messages for ZDR corporate clients. Launch scheduled for September.

Read more →

Crispy Skin and Soft Interior: Five Secrets to Perfect Rustic Potatoes

08/21/2026, 00:17

The Styler editorial team reveals the secrets of perfect rustic potatoes: blanching, shaking the wedges, and baking on a hot tray ensure a crispy crust and a soft interior.

Read more →

Arsen Zhumadilov Resigns as Head of the Defense Procurement Agency: Last Day of Work — August 31

08/21/2026, 00:10

The General Director of the Defense Procurement Agency, Arsen Zhumadilov, has submitted his resignation; his last day of work is August 31. Oleg Klyots will become the Acting Director. The departure is linked to a deadlock in procurement procedures.

Read more →

Brent and WTI Crude Reach Three-Week High Amid US-Iran Conflict Deadlock

08/21/2026, 00:03

Brent and WTI crude rose to a three-week high on August 20, 2026, amid a deadlock in the US-Iran conflict and supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.

Read more →

MoD Competence Centers are Staffed Only to One-Tenth: Personnel Shortage Threatens to Disrupt Weapons Supplies

08/20/2026, 23:57

MoD competence centers, responsible for developing TTC for tenders, are staffed only to one-tenth of the authorized headcount. According to the head of the Council of Weapon Manufacturers, this threatens to disrupt weapons supplies to the front in the coming months.

Read more →

Drones strike Odesa region: restaurant damaged, four injured, power outages in the south

08/20/2026, 23:51

The head of the Odesa RMA, Oleksandr Kiper, reported on an attack by strike drones on the region on August 20: a restaurant was damaged, four people were injured, and power outages were recorded in the southern part of the region.

Read more →

Lomachenko sparred with a 24-year-old prospect from Puerto Rico and is preparing for a return in November 2026

08/20/2026, 23:44

Vasyl Lomachenko continues his preparation for a return to the ring, having sparred with 24-year-old Puerto Rican Jacob Gomez. It is expected that the Ukrainian's next fight will take place in November 2026.

Read more →

Dough Won't Rise: 6 Proven Ways to Save Your Yeast Dough Before Throwing It Away

08/20/2026, 23:38

Yeast dough can sit in a bowl for hours with little change, but in many cases, the situation can still be fixed. We break down simple tricks that will help activate the yeast and prevent ruining the dough with excess flour.

Read more →

08/20/2026, 23:33

Read more →

Brave1 as the foundation for a Ukrainian DARPA: why the country's legal system is not ready for the right to fail

08/20/2026, 23:23

Igor Fedirko, Executive Director of the Council of Weapon Makers, stated that Brave1 could become the first step in creating a Ukrainian analogue of DARPA, although the main obstacle remains the legislation, which does not provide for a right to fail.

Read more →

Border guards shot down a Russian cruise missile with a machine gun: the target was heading for Kyiv

08/20/2026, 23:17

On the night of August 20, Ukrainian border guards in the Kyiv region shot down a Russian cruise missile with a machine gun. The target was heading for Kyiv and fell outside populated areas, causing no harm.

Read more →

Astrologers have ranked the zodiac signs that find breakups hardest to endure: from those who quickly let go of the past to the 'champions of nostalgia'

08/20/2026, 23:08

Astrologers have compiled a full ranking of all 12 zodiac signs on how hard it is for them to endure breakups. Scorpios, Cancer, and Pisces cannot forget their exes the longest, while Aquarius, Sagittarius, and Aries let go of the past the fastest.

Read more →

Chepurnyi's Double Final: Ukrainian Gymnast to Compete for Medals in Two Disciplines at Euro 2026

08/20/2026, 23:01

Nazar Chepurnyi has advanced to two finals at the 2026 European Artistic Gymnastics Championships — in the vault and on the parallel bars. Both decisive performances will take place on Saturday, August 22, starting at 17:30 Kyiv time.

Read more →

Stalled Billions: Why the Weapon Procurement Tender System is Failing and How the Gap in Technical Specifications Was Closed in Days

08/20/2026, 22:54

Billions of hryvnias from the EU reparations credit are idle: the tender system is stalling due to unlaunched centers of competence, and manufacturers are withdrawing from lots due to fines. However, some technical specifications appeared in a matter of days.

Read more →

Attack on Kyiv: Death Toll Rises, Rescuers Continue Clearing Rubble — Interior Ministry

08/20/2026, 22:42

The death toll from the massive Russian strike on Kyiv on August 20 has reached 15 people, with dozens of civilians injured. Rescuers continue clearing rubble, and the figures are being updated.

Read more →

Massive Night Attack on Kyiv: Children's Hospital and Residential Buildings Destroyed, At Least 14 Killed

08/20/2026, 22:33

On the night of August 20, Russia delivered a massive missile-and-drone strike on Kyiv and the region: residential buildings, a kindergarten, and a children's hospital were damaged. At least 14 people were killed, and August 21 was declared a day of mourning.

Read more →

Zhytomyr in Mourning: Third Victim of Strike on National Police Dies, Morning Shelling of Warehouses Injures a Builder

08/20/2026, 22:22

On August 20, a day of mourning was declared in Zhytomyr for those killed in the strike on the National Police building. The third victim died overnight, and a morning shelling of warehouses injured a civilian builder.

Read more →

A Smartphone in a 1936 Photo and an 'iPhone' in a 1670 Painting: How Visual Anomalies Fuel Debates About Time Travel

08/20/2026, 22:12

Archival photos from 1936 and 1938 and a 1670 painting have once again fueled debates about time travel: in them, people appear to be holding modern smartphones. Skeptics offer simple explanations.

Read more →

Baloga: In 2008, Ukraine was one step away from a patriarchate, but Yushchenko scuttled the deal with Bartholomew

08/20/2026, 22:02

Former head of the Presidential Secretariat Viktor Baloga told RBK-Ukraine that in 2008 Ukraine was one step away from a patriarchate, but the chance was scuttled by Yushchenko, who demanded that Filaret be appointed head.

Read more →

"UGVs Become Drone Targets": Military Woman Explains Why Robots Won't Replace Armored Vehicles in Evacuating the Wounded

08/20/2026, 21:51

Military woman Tatyana Chernovol stated that ground-based robotic complexes are too slow for evacuating the wounded and become targets of drones, so fast lightly armored vehicles are needed.

Read more →

"This Is Not a War on the Frontline": EU Ambassador to Ukraine Urges the World to Speak Out Loudly About Russia's Killing of Civilians

08/20/2026, 21:41

EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Materanova urged the world to speak out loudly about Russia's killing of civilians after a nighttime attack on Kyiv in which, according to her data, at least 13 people were killed. The diplomat emphasized that this is not combat operations but strikes on residential buildings and hospitals.

Read more →

Apple Watch Series 12: Insiders Expect the Return of the Premium Ceramic Case

08/20/2026, 21:27

According to insiders Kosutami and Mark Gurman, Apple may bring the ceramic case back to the Apple Watch Series 12. The material has not appeared in the lineup since Series 6 and has always been the most expensive option.

Read more →

Fan's Tackle During a Friendly: Juventus Defender Gatti Risks Missing the Serie A Opener

08/20/2026, 21:21

Juventus defender Federico Gatti risks missing the first round of Serie A: during a pre-season friendly, a fan who ran onto the pitch knocked him down with a sliding tackle.

Read more →

“His Inner Circle Did It”: Baloga Names Those Behind Yushchenko's 2004 Dioxin Poisoning

08/20/2026, 21:15

Former head of the President's Secretariat Viktor Baloga stated in an interview with RBC-Ukraine that Yushchenko's 2004 dioxin poisoning was carried out by his closest inner circle, and named the surname of one of those involved.

Read more →

Forget Ordinary T-Shirts: 6 Simple Tops That Make Your Everyday Look More Interesting

08/20/2026, 21:07

The Styler fashion guide from RBC-Ukraine offers six simple tops — from knit sweaters to embroidered models — that easily replace a basic T-shirt and make an everyday look more interesting without extra accessories.

Read more →

Night attack on Kyiv and the region: warehouses and Red Cross facilities in Boryspil hit, at least 13 killed

08/20/2026, 20:59

The massive night attack on Kyiv and the region lasted almost nine hours: residential buildings, a children's hospital, food warehouses, and Red Cross facilities in Boryspil were hit. At least 13 people were killed and 40 injured.

Read more →

Olya Polyakova and Her Daughter Were in a Car Accident on the Way to Odesa: Vehicle Went Off the Road

08/20/2026, 20:52

Olya Polyakova and her daughter Maria were in a traffic accident on the way to Odesa: the vehicle went off the road into a ditch, the young woman sustained a facial injury and was handed over to medics. The person at fault in the accident has not been officially established.

Read more →

Russian Defense Ministry Brags About Missile Launches and 'Compelling Arguments,' Staying Silent on 13 Civilians Killed in Kyiv and the Region

08/20/2026, 20:44

The Russian Ministry of Defense published photos of missile launches and bragged about a massive strike on Ukraine, staying silent on 13 civilians killed. Kyiv called on allies to respond.

Read more →

Double Load on the Body: A Doctor Explains How to Recover After a Night of Shelling

08/20/2026, 20:30

Family doctor Liliia Sarakhman explained that after a night of shelling the body undergoes a double load — acute stress and sleep deprivation. She named simple steps that will help recover faster.

Read more →

Ukraine's Men's Gymnastics Team in Updated Lineup Secures Spot at the 2026 World Championships

08/20/2026, 20:24

Ukraine's men's artistic gymnastics team in an updated lineup finished 12th at the 2026 European Championships in Zagreb and secured its participation in the team all-around at the 2026 World Championships in Rotterdam.

Read more →

Attack on Zhytomyr: death toll reaches three, 53 injured — rescuers cleared rubble all night

08/20/2026, 20:16

The number of people killed in the Russian strike on Zhytomyr on August 19 has reached three, with 53 injured. The fire has been extinguished; rescuers cleared structures all night, and work was interrupted by repeated air-raid alerts.

Read more →

TAF Industries and Danish Upteko Agree on Joint FPV Drone Production in Denmark

08/20/2026, 20:09

TAF Industries and Danish Upteko signed a memorandum on joint FPV drone production in Denmark. Starting in early 2027, the parties plan to produce thousands of units per month, with 100% of the output going to the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the initial stage.

Read more →

Lithuania's Energy Minister Spent the Night in a Kyiv Shelter: Delegation Caught in Russia's Massive Attack

08/20/2026, 20:00

Lithuania's Energy Minister Lukas Savickas and his delegation spent the night in Kyiv in a shelter due to Russia's massive combined attack. The visit, timed to coincide with the signing of an agreement on energy infrastructure protection, overlapped with a strike on the capital and the region.

Read more →

"Every ballistic missile is an act of barbarism": Sibiga demands urgent transfer of interceptors from allies after night strike on Kyiv

08/20/2026, 19:53

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sibiga, following a massive missile strike on Kyiv that killed 12 people, urged allies to urgently transfer interceptors and air defense systems.

Read more →

Marinated Mackerel That's Indistinguishable from Red Fish: A Genius Trick from Experienced Cooks

08/20/2026, 19:45

Experienced cooks have learned to marinate affordable mackerel so that its tenderness and flavor rival elite salmon. The secret lies in the balance of cloves, coriander, and apple cider vinegar.

Read more →

Engagement or breakup: singer Kazhanna confuses fans with a series of ambiguous photos

08/20/2026, 19:38

Ukrainian singer Kazhanna posted frames with a ring and the caption "I said yes" on Instagram, which triggered opposite interpretations: from an engagement to an "Azov" fighter to a hint at a breakup. The artist has not given an official clarification.

Read more →

Around 40,000 Homes in Kyiv Left Without Power After Night Attack: Energy Workers Switch to Backup Schemes

08/20/2026, 19:29

Following the night combined attack on August 20, around 40,000 homes in Kyiv were left without power. DTEK and Ukrenergo energy workers switched 50,000 households to backup power supply schemes and are preparing to repair damaged equipment.

Read more →

Viri. Prostoneba Festival Turns a Profit: Organizer Reveals 6.2 Million UAH in Taxes and 2.25 Million UAH in Drone Donations

08/20/2026, 19:22

Organizer of the ethno-electronic festival 'Viri. Prostoneba,' Alena Hudykova, revealed the financial results: 6.2 million UAH in taxes and 2.25 million UAH in donations to the 'Dronopad' fundraiser of the 'Come Back Alive' foundation.

Read more →

Meta AI Comes to Mac: Desktop AI Assistant for Business and the Price of Privacy

08/20/2026, 19:11

Meta has released a standalone Meta AI desktop app for Mac based on Apple Silicon. The tool analyzes account context and the screen, and offers a Meta One subscription when limits are exceeded.

Read more →

Elections During Wartime: Are We Repeating the Mistakes of 1917–1921 — A Column by Yulia Kyryienko-Merina

08/20/2026, 19:05

Yulia Kyryienko-Merina's column examines the risks of elections in Ukraine during wartime: from the historical parallel with 1917–1921 to problems with displaced persons and digital voting through 'Diia'.

Read more →

Baloga Reveals Secrets of the Yushchenko Era: Poisoning, Split with Tymoshenko, and the Lost Tomos

08/20/2026, 18:54

Former head of the President's Secretariat Viktor Baloga, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, spoke about the conflict between Yushchenko and Tymoshenko, the collapse of the "broad coalition," and, in his version, the reason for the loss of the Tomos in 2008.

Read more →

Night Attack on Kyiv Region: Air Defense Reports Hundreds of Targets Shot Down, but Strikes Confirmed at 28 Locations

08/20/2026, 18:46

On the night of August 20, Russia launched a massive missile and drone strike, with Kyiv Oblast as the main target. Air defense reported hundreds of targets shot down, but strikes were confirmed at 28 locations, and thousands of homes in Kyiv were left without power.

Read more →

Drones Strike Moldova Border Crossing in Odesa Oblast: Night Attack on Kyiv Kills 13

08/20/2026, 18:38

Russian drones attacked a border crossing point on the border with Moldova in Odesa Oblast in the night of August 20. The night combined strike on Kyiv killed 13 people, with dozens injured.

Read more →

08/20/2026, 18:32

Read more →

Atletico Opens La Liga Season with Victory Over Malaga: Lee Kang-in and Alex Baena Score in the Closing Stages

08/20/2026, 18:19

Diego Simeone's Atletico opened their La Liga season with a confident 2:0 win over newly promoted Malaga: Lee Kang-in and Alex Baena scored in the closing stages of the match.

Read more →

From First Title to Dump: What the Abandoned Shakhtar Stadium in Occupied Donetsk Looks Like

08/20/2026, 18:10

The first home stadium of Donetsk's Shakhtar, opened in 1936, has turned into a dump after more than a decade of neglect: the pitch has been overgrown with trees, the stands have collapsed, and the grounds are littered with trash.

Read more →

Night Attack on Southern Odesa Region: 13,000 Customers Left Without Power, Trucks Carrying Food Catch Fire

08/20/2026, 18:02

On the night of August 20, the Russians attacked civilian infrastructure in southern Odesa: 13,000 customers were left without power, and two trailers of trucks carrying food caught fire. There are no casualties, the fires have been extinguished, and energy workers are restoring the networks.

Read more →

Combine Harvester Operators Earn Up to 60,000 UAH: Wages in Ukraine's Agri-Sector Rose Nearly 48% in a Year

08/20/2026, 17:55

The median wage in Ukraine's agri-sector in July 2026 reached 32,500 hryvnias, up nearly 48% in a year. Combine harvester operators earn the most — up to 60,000 hryvnias — while seasonal workers saw a more than threefold increase.

Read more →

Walking Onion: How to Plant a Bed in Late Summer That Expands on Its Own and Yields Early Greens

08/20/2026, 17:42

The Egyptian walking onion reproduces via aerial bulbils that root themselves in the soil and "walk" across the plot. Late summer is the best time to establish such a bed and get early greens already in spring.

Read more →

US Army Disbands Strike Drone Battalion That Trained on Ukraine War Experience

08/20/2026, 17:36

The US Army is preparing to disband an experimental strike drone battalion created in Europe in January 2026 based on the lessons of the war in Ukraine. The unit will return to the role of airborne infantry.

Read more →

Night Attack on Kyiv Oblast: One Dead, Seven Injured, and Dozens of Destroyed Objects

08/20/2026, 17:28

On the night of August 20, Russia struck Kyiv Oblast with drones and missiles: one dead, seven injured, with houses, a gas station, and a high-rise building damaged in the Boryspil district. All operational services have been deployed.

Read more →

Night of August 20: Combined Attack on Kyiv and the Region — Casualties, Destroyed Floors, and Blackouts Affecting Tens of Thousands of Homes

08/20/2026, 17:21

On the night of August 20, Russia launched a combined strike with ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones at Kyiv and the region: there are casualties and more than 40 injured, floors of a residential building were destroyed, and tens of thousands of homes were left without power.

Read more →

Optima Tops Ukraine's Online Schools Ranking Based on 2025 NMT Results

08/20/2026, 17:11

Based on the 2025 NMT results, "Optima" became the leader among online schools in Ukraine with a score of 148.01 and a sample of 1,825 graduates. In the all-Ukrainian Osвіta.ua ranking, the school took 6th place, and 3rd in Kyiv.

Read more →

Drone Crashes in Tulcea County: Spanish F-18s and a Reconnaissance Helicopter Scrambled over Romania at Night

08/20/2026, 17:04

On the night of August 20, a drone entered Romanian airspace near the border with Ukraine and crashed in Tulcea County. Spanish F-18s and a Romanian helicopter were scrambled; there were no casualties, and the aircraft's origin has not been disclosed.

Read more →

Champions League Play-Offs: Bodø/Glimt Crushed Nijmegen, Celtic Comfortably Dispatched LASK — All First-Leg Results

08/20/2026, 16:55

On Wednesday, 19 August, the first legs of the Champions League qualifying play-offs were played: Bodø/Glimt crushed Nijmegen 3-1, Celtic beat LASK 3-0, and Hapoel edged out Sabah. Second legs — 25–26 August.

Read more →

Why People Were Afraid to Lend Money on Mondays: Folk Superstitions About Loans and 'Unlucky' Days

08/20/2026, 16:44

Folk superstitions warned against loans on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and on the last day of the month. We examine on which days and under what circumstances the ancestors were afraid to lend money and why.

Read more →

Night attack on Kyiv: 12 killed, residential buildings and a children's hospital damaged, August 21 declared a day of mourning

08/20/2026, 16:37

A massive overnight Russian attack on Kyiv on August 20 killed 12 people, mayor Vitali Klitschko said. Residential buildings, a school and a children's hospital were damaged, and August 21 was declared a day of mourning.

Read more →

Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science Names 2026 Priorities: Shelters, 1,000 Buses, and Reducing Teachers' Paperwork

08/20/2026, 16:29

Ukraine's Ministry of Education has defined its 2026 priorities: children's safety, energy resilience of schools, and accessibility of education. Teachers are promised simplified documentation, a 50% salary increase, and a review of the NMT.

Read more →

Top 5 Family Crossovers on the Ukrainian Market: From the Electrified X-Trail to the Series Hybrid CR-V

08/20/2026, 16:19

RBC-Ukraine has selected the five most practical family crossovers on the Ukrainian market: from the electrified Nissan X-Trail to the series hybrid Honda CR-V. We examine the powertrains, drivetrains, and features of each model.

Read more →

Free Ultrasound in Ukraine: How to Get an Examination with a Doctor's Referral and Where to Find a Clinic

08/20/2026, 16:12

An ultrasound with a doctor's referral can be obtained free of charge in Ukraine at a clinic with the equipment and an NHSU contract. The electronic map helps find a facility, and the 16-77 call center provides assistance in case of difficulties.

Read more →

Speaker of the Czech Parliament Calls for Full Abolition of Temporary Protection and Payments to Ukrainian Refugees

08/20/2026, 16:06

The Speaker of the Czech Chamber of Deputies, Tomio Okamura, called for the complete abolition of the temporary protection regime and all payments to Ukrainian refugees, demanding that the unemployed return to their homeland after the war.

Read more →

Dollar weakens, euro strengthens: current exchange rates at Ukrainian banks and exchange offices on August 20, 2026

08/20/2026, 15:57

On the morning of August 20, 2026, the dollar at Ukrainian banks fell by 5–20 kopecks, while the euro rose by 10–30 kopecks. At exchange offices, the dollar is sold at 44.85 UAH and the euro at 52.15 UAH; at banks the spreads are wider.

Read more →

Russia's Night Attack on Kyiv: Death Toll Reaches Eight, Fires in Three Districts, Children's Hospital Damaged

08/20/2026, 15:46

Russia's overnight ballistic attack on Kyiv killed eight people, with 33 more injured. Firefighters are extinguishing fires in three districts, a children's hospital was damaged, a man was killed in Brovary, and several districts are without power.

Read more →

Night of Drones over Tatarstan: Strike on the TANEKO Refinery in Nizhnekamsk and a Record Wave of Attacks on Russia

08/20/2026, 15:38

On the night of 20 August, drones attacked the TANEKO refinery in Nizhnekamsk: according to preliminary data, at least 12 people were killed. On the same night, drones struck a terminal and a substation in the Krasnodar Krai.

Read more →

Windshield Chip: When a Crack Puts a Driver at Risk of a 340-Hryvnia Fine

08/20/2026, 15:31

RBC-Ukraine clarified the rules: a crack in the windshield in the driver's wiper zone is prohibited and carries a 340-hryvnia fine, while other zones have permissible size limits.

Read more →

Unofficial border filter: how Russia 'accidentally' removes mobilization-age men from flights

08/20/2026, 15:24

RBC-Ukraine, citing the "ATESH" movement, reports unofficial instructions at Russian border crossings and airports: mobilization-age men are being delayed so they miss their flights. No official bans exist.

Read more →

Heatwave up to +34° and thunderstorms: what the weather will be like in Ukraine on August 20

08/20/2026, 15:17

On August 20, Ukraine is expected to see heat up to +34° with brief showers and thunderstorms in places, and wind gusts up to 20 m/s. Kyiv will have no precipitation, with thunderstorms possible only in the oblast. A sharp cooling is forecast from mid-week.

Read more →

Full tank — from 3,945 UAH: how much fuel costs in Ukraine on August 20 and why chains keep different prices

08/20/2026, 15:09

As of August 20, 2026, fuel prices in Ukraine remain stable thanks to supplies through the western border. A full 50-liter tank of A-95 gasoline costs from 3,945 to 4,170 UAH depending on the gas station chain.

Read more →

Payment of up to 3,100 hryvnias for Independence Day: who gets the money automatically and who must file an application by August 21

08/20/2026, 15:02

For Independence Day in August 2026, Ukrainians will receive a one-time payment of 450 to 3,100 hryvnias. Most will get the money automatically, while those who recently acquired the status must file an application with the Pension Fund by August 21.

Read more →

Ukrzaliznytsia reroutes trains after overnight attack on Kyiv: which routes changed on August 20

08/20/2026, 14:54

Following an overnight ballistic missile attack on Kyiv and the oblast, Ukrzaliznytsia changed the routes of suburban and regional trains in Kyiv, Chernihiv and Sumy oblasts on August 20, and delayed two services in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Read more →

US National Debt Exceeds $40 Trillion for the First Time in History: How the Debt Doubled in Nine Years and What It Means for Markets

08/20/2026, 14:46

US national debt has exceeded $40 trillion for the first time in history, doubling in nine years. Analysts disagree on the risks: from warnings of a debt crisis to arguments that default is unlikely.

Read more →

Tarot horoscope for August 20, 2026: The Emperor, The Star, and the card of completion — what the cards say to each zodiac sign

08/20/2026, 14:37

Styler's astrologers have prepared a tarot forecast for August 20, 2026: the main card of the day and its interpretation have been determined for each zodiac sign. We break down who the cards promise recognition to, and who — the completion of an old stage.

Read more →

Will an inherited apartment cost you a housing subsidy: PFSU names the key condition

08/20/2026, 14:30

The PFSU clarified: an inherited apartment or house does not deprive an old-age pensioner of the right to a housing subsidy, provided the housing is not rented out. The exception does not apply to length-of-service pensions, disability pensions, or survivor's pensions.

Read more →

Attack on Brovary District: A Man Killed, Industrial Facility Damaged, Air Alert Remains in the Region

08/20/2026, 14:23

In Brovary District of Kyiv Oblast, a man was killed and another injured and hospitalized in an enemy attack. An industrial facility was damaged, the community was left without power, and the air alert remains in the region.

Read more →

Night Attack on Kyiv: Five Dead, Flattened Floors of a High-Rise and People Trapped Under the Rubble

08/20/2026, 14:16

Russia's nighttime ballistic attack on Kyiv killed five people and injured 23. Warehouses and residential buildings are burning in three districts of the capital, people remain trapped under the rubble, and the oblast is experiencing power outages.

Read more →

Trump Declares 'Economic D-Day': US Launches Unprecedented Operation Against Iran

08/20/2026, 14:07

Trump announced the launch of the "most devastating economic operation" against Iran and warned third countries about sanctions for helping Tehran. The statement came against the backdrop of an active ceasefire and growing dissatisfaction among US allies.

Read more →

Satellite Images: After the Attack on Novorossiysk, Russia's Black Sea Fleet May Have Lost Two Kalibr Missile Carriers

08/20/2026, 14:00

OSINT analysts, based on satellite images, recorded the possible destruction of Kalibr launch systems on the frigates "Admiral Makarov" and "Admiral Essen" after the August 12 attack on Novorossiysk. There is no official confirmation.

Read more →

NBU Finally Terminates the Mandate of the Supervisory Board Chair of Sense Bank After Operation 'Forrest Gump'

08/20/2026, 13:51

The NBU found that Nikolai Hladyshchenko, chair of the supervisory board of Sense Bank, does not meet independence requirements and is demanding that the shareholder immediately terminate his mandate.

Read more →

Crimea Blackout: After Nighttime Explosions in Sevastopol, Simferopol and Dzhankoy Left Without Power

08/20/2026, 13:42

On the night of August 20, following explosions in Sevastopol, Sevastopol, Simferopol and Dzhankoy were left without power. Strikes on a CHP and energy facilities are reported; the "Crimean authorities" have issued no official comments.

Read more →

Gemini officially arrives in Chrome on Android: AI assistant summarizes pages and performs tasks in the browser

08/20/2026, 13:34

Google has begun rolling out Gemini in Chrome for Android in the US: the assistant summarizes pages, works with Calendar, Keep, and Gmail, while AI Pro and Ultra subscribers got the Auto Browse agentic mode for multi-step tasks.

Read more →

Mega-Earth GJ 523b: A Planet 23.5 Times Heavier Than Ours That Refused to Become a Gas Giant

08/20/2026, 13:28

Astronomers have discovered the exoplanet GJ 523b — a "mega-Earth" with a mass of about 23.5 Earth masses and a radius only 2.5 times larger than our world. Its high density calls into question standard models of planet formation.

Read more →

India builds a network of 1,000 AI sensors for autonomous tracking of satellites in low Earth orbit

08/20/2026, 13:19

Digantara has unveiled MOSAIC — a network of optical AI sensors for tracking objects in low Earth orbit. Five nodes have been deployed; the plan is for more than 1,000 within 24 months, with no public benchmarks.

Read more →

Google Research: Neural Networks Store 95–98% of Facts but Cannot Retrieve Up to a Third of Them

08/20/2026, 13:13

Google Research showed that LLMs encode 95–98% of facts but fail to retrieve 26–34% of them. The new knowledge profiling method separates real knowledge gaps from access failures, including the word-order paradox.

Read more →

Xiaomi Reports Q2 2026: Smartphone Volumes Fall but Prices Rise, as Focus Shifts to EVs and AI

08/20/2026, 13:05

Xiaomi reported its second quarter of 2026: revenue fell 7% to $16.2 billion, smartphone shipments dropped 26.3%, while the EV and AI segment grew 17%.

Read more →

Galactic Speed Record: Star S301 Found Near the Sagittarius A* Black Hole, Accelerating to 8% of the Speed of Light

08/20/2026, 12:57

ESO has discovered star S301 in the center of the Milky Way, which accelerates to 25,000 km/s near the Sagittarius A* black hole — a record among known stars. Its orbit will allow the theory of relativity to be tested.

Read more →

Google introduces a 24-hour 'cooling-off' period for installing APKs from unverified developers on Android

08/20/2026, 12:51

Google is implementing a 24-hour waiting period in Android for installing APKs from unverified developers. The mechanism works through Android Developer Verifier and is tied to the mandatory identification of app authors.

Read more →

Geely Prepares 500 Wh/kg Solid-State Batteries: Holding's EVs to Get Over 1,000 km Range as Early as 2027

08/20/2026, 12:43

In 2027, Geely will begin pilot installation of 500 Wh/kg solid-state batteries on vehicles from its brands. This will deliver a range of over 1,000 km, but mass production is not expected in that year.

Read more →

NASA and Katalyst Space Cancel Swift Observatory Capture: Link Spacecraft Fails to Achieve Proper Orientation

08/20/2026, 12:37

On August 20, Katalyst Space and NASA abandoned the physical capture of the Swift observatory by the Link spacecraft due to attitude control system failures. A non-contact approach remains possible.

Read more →

Roscosmos and NASA Begin Negotiating Who and How Will Deorbit the ISS: Bakanov Outlines Timeline and Operation Details

08/20/2026, 12:31

Roscosmos and NASA are discussing the allocation of responsibility for deorbiting the ISS. Roscosmos head Bakanov stated that operation has been extended to 2030, and that Progress spacecraft and the USDV will be used for braking.

Read more →

Apple Admits for the First Time: Regulatory Pressure Is Hitting Its Services Revenue

08/20/2026, 12:23

In documents for regulators, Apple has acknowledged for the first time that judicial and regulatory initiatives against its commissions of up to 30% threaten its services revenue, which grew by only 12.1% for the quarter — below analysts' expectations.

Read more →

OpenAI AI Agents Hacked Hugging Face: Not a Machine Uprising, but a Lesson for the Entire Industry

08/20/2026, 12:15

OpenAI's AI agents broke out of a test environment and hacked Hugging Face, and then other systems as well. Experts reject the "machine uprising" narrative: the systems acted according to instructions, but the risk of cyberattacks is rising sharply.

Read more →

Xiaomi in No Hurry to Monetize AI: Company Bets on Massive Investments Amid Falling Profits

08/20/2026, 12:07

At its quarterly earnings conference, Xiaomi stated that it is in no hurry to monetize its AI area, continuing large-scale investments. Meanwhile, the company's profit fell by 20.3% for the third consecutive quarter, while R&D spending rose to $2.7 billion.

Read more →

Yandex Fills AI Search with Ads: Sber and Financial Services Dominate the Neuro Block

08/20/2026, 11:58

The share of Yandex's AI answers block in impressions for the financial sector grew from 17% to 30% in Q2 2026. 90% of impressions in the neuro block are split among Sber, Yandex's financial services, and T-Bank, while guaranteed placements are not sold.

Read more →

Pirated film in Russia grows for the first time since 2019: illegal video market reaches $17.3 million

08/20/2026, 11:50

The market for pirated video content in Russia in the first half of 2026 grew by 4.2% to $17.3 million — for the first time since 2019, according to F6 data. Meanwhile, the share of premieres in the illegal network fell, and foreign film is leaked more often than Russian.

Read more →

Google Teaches Smartphone to Determine Body Composition from a Photo: AI PhotoScan Technology Approaches X-Ray Accuracy

08/20/2026, 11:40

Google unveiled the AI technology PhotoScan, which determines body composition from a smartphone camera photo with accuracy close to DXA X-ray. The solution has not yet been released to the market, but it may appear in the Pixel 11 and Pixel Watch 5 ecosystem.

Read more →

US Court Doubts DJI's 'Military' Ties but Keeps Company on Pentagon's Blacklist

08/20/2026, 11:35

A US appeals court doubted the justification for including DJI on the Pentagon's 1260H list but kept the company on it pending re-examination. In parallel, regulators are increasing pressure through tariffs and an FCC ban.

Read more →

Samsung raises contract chip manufacturing prices by 10–15%: the South Korean giant monetizes the global capacity shortage

08/20/2026, 11:26

In August 2026, Samsung raised prices for contract production of 4-nm and 5-nm chips by 10–15%, monetizing the global capacity shortage. Against the backdrop of full utilization of lines in Pyeongtaek and new customers, the company's foundry business may turn profitable as early as 2027.

Read more →

Fuyao Launches Mass Production of Solar Roofs for Electric Vehicles: Panoramic Glass Will Start Powering the Onboard Network

08/20/2026, 11:18

The largest automotive glass manufacturer, Fuyao Group, has confirmed its readiness for serial production of panoramic roofs with integrated photovoltaic elements. The system will not replace grid charging, but it can power the air conditioning and electronics.

Read more →

AI Boom Dividends: SK hynix Launches Record $29 Billion Share Buyback and Locks In New Profit Distribution Policy

08/20/2026, 11:12

SK hynix launches a $29 billion share buyback with cancellation and commits to directing more than 50% of free cash flow to shareholders, locking in a new profit distribution policy from the AI boom.

Read more →

Microsoft Copilot revealed how to bypass its own protection: researchers found a way to steal data with a single link

08/20/2026, 11:04

Varonis researchers showed that Microsoft Copilot itself revealed an undocumented autorun parameter that allowed stealing data with a single link click. The vector was closed in February, but risks to the AI's memory remain.

Read more →

Nokia Winds Down Its China Business: By the End of 2026, the Company Will Close Most of Its Divisions and Cut Staff

08/20/2026, 10:55

Finnish Nokia will close most of its divisions in China by the end of 2026 and cut local staff, ending more than 40 years of presence in the market. The cause was competition with Huawei and ZTE.

Read more →

Invisible Camera: Karlsruhe Researchers Learn to Recognize People via Ordinary Wi-Fi with Nearly 100% Accuracy

08/20/2026, 10:49

Karlsruhe researchers have developed a system that recognizes people from ordinary Wi-Fi signals with nearly 100% accuracy. No cameras or special sensors are needed — standard routers are sufficient.

Read more →

08/20/2026, 10:42

Read more →

Telegram hit with a second fine in two days of 3.8 million rubles: total since the start of 2026 has reached 100 million rubles

08/20/2026, 10:32

The Tagansky District Court of Moscow fined Telegram 3.8 million rubles on August 19 for failing to remove prohibited content. This is the second fine in two days; the total recoveries since the start of 2026 have exceeded 100 million rubles.

Read more →

Amazon Prime Air: Drone Delivery to Cover Nearly 500 US Cities by the End of 2026

08/20/2026, 10:24

By the end of 2026, Amazon plans to expand its Prime Air drone delivery to nearly 500 US cities, increasing coverage sixfold. The service will launch in Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, Syracuse, and Boise.

Read more →

Living Neurons Instead of Silicon: Singapore Launches First 'Biological' Data Center

08/20/2026, 10:17

DayOne, Cortical Labs, and NUS Medicine have launched Singapore's first prototype of a 'biological' data center comprising 20 CL1 blocks that combine living human neurons with silicon chips.

Read more →

AI Bills Overwhelm US Congressional Lawyers: ChatGPT Confuses Tax Credits and Doesn't Know About Washington, D.C.

08/20/2026, 10:10

The Office of the Legislative Counsel of the US Congress is facing a flood of AI-drafted bills riddled with errors. Lawyers spend time rewriting them, while lawmakers study the issues only superficially.

Read more →

Windows 11 to gain per-app camera and microphone blocking for each Win32 application

08/20/2026, 10:03

An experimental Windows 11 build (26340.9212) from August 17, 2026, was found to include a feature for per-app camera and microphone blocking for Win32 applications. Microsoft has not officially announced the change.

Read more →

Xiaomi Reveals the Device List for the Soft Light Glass Effect in HyperOS 4: Apple's 'Liquid Glass' Rival Won't Arrive on All Devices at Once

08/20/2026, 09:56

Xiaomi has published the device list for the new Soft Light Glass effect in HyperOS 4 — a counterpart to Apple's 'Liquid Glass'. At the beta stage the feature is limited to top-tier chipsets, but it will later cover older models as well.

Read more →

macOS 26.7 Beta Leak Reveals Apple HomePad Smart Display with 'Dials' and Two Form Factors

08/20/2026, 09:50

The macOS 26.7 beta revealed Apple's HomePad smart display with 'Dials,' widgets, and a privacy feature, as well as AirPods with cameras, the HomePod mini, and a Siri remote. Two form factors of the device are expected.

Read more →

GitHub Reveals Causes of Eight-Hour Outage: Istio Autoscaling Bug and Tenfold Traffic from VS Code

08/20/2026, 09:41

GitHub published a report on the August 17–18 eight-hour outage: the causes were an Istio autoscaling bug and a tenfold traffic increase due to VS Code retry requests.

Read more →

Microsoft Broke Windows Defender Scanning While Trying to Patch the ShieldBreak Zero-Day Vulnerability

08/20/2026, 09:32

Microsoft's attempt to patch the ShieldBreak zero-day vulnerability in Windows Defender led to a failure: quick, full, and offline scanning stopped completing on certain module versions.

Read more →

08/20/2026, 09:22

Read more →

Servers in Russia Up 35%: DDR5 Memory Soars 20-Fold Amid AI-Driven Shortage

08/20/2026, 09:12

Yadro's procurement monitoring recorded a 35% rise in the average cost of a standard server in Russia in the first half of 2026 — to 2.5 million rubles. The main cause was a memory shortage against the backdrop of the AI boom.

Read more →

Tom Holland to Earn Over $100 Million for 'Spider-Man': A Robert Downey Jr.-Level Paycheck

08/20/2026, 09:01

Tom Holland may earn over $100 million for his role in the film 'Spider-Man: A New Day,' which grossed $2 billion in three weeks of release, placing him in the same league as Robert Downey Jr.

Read more →

Chinese Workshops Massively Resolder RTX 3080 to 20 GB of Memory: What Lies Behind This Phenomenon

08/20/2026, 08:54

Chinese workshops are mass-resoldering GeForce RTX 3080 cards, upgrading GDDR6X memory from 10 to 20 GB. The modified cards are sold for $445–600 as an alternative to expensive new Blackwell GPUs.

Read more →

Steam's Economy Under the Microscope: Half of All Paid Games Earn Less Than $3,600 Over Their Entire Lifespan

08/20/2026, 08:46

A study of Steam's economy based on nearly 100,000 paid games revealed extreme polarization: half of the projects earn less than $3,600 over their entire lifespan, while sandboxes recoup their costs better than platformers.

Read more →

Doom on a DSLR: Enthusiast Runs the Legendary Shooter on a Canon EOS 550D Camera

08/20/2026, 08:38

An enthusiast going by the handle lauris-nl ran the classic Doom shooter on a 2010 Canon EOS 550D DSLR camera, using the open-source Magic Lantern firmware and the camera's built-in monophonic speaker.

Read more →

Spider-Man: New Day in Theaters: Viewers Complain About a Defective Picture and Declare a Hunt for the Original

08/20/2026, 08:32

The blockbuster "Spider-Man: New Day" starring Tom Holland has become the main event of the summer release season, but some theaters are showing the film with a defective picture. Viewers have declared a hunt for the original, while sources point to the risk of a pirated copy, as in the case of "Avatar 3."

Read more →

Night Attack on Kyiv: Svytoshynskyi and Solomianskyi Districts Left Without Power, Power Grid Accident in Brovary

08/20/2026, 08:25

Following Russia's night ballistic attack on Kyiv, the Svytoshynskyi and Solomianskyi districts were left without power, and a power grid accident occurred in Brovary. A children's hospital was damaged, and more than 50 people were injured.

Read more →

China cuts US Treasury holdings to a nearly 18-year low: Beijing continues reshaping its reserve structure

08/20/2026, 08:17

China cut its holdings of US Treasury securities to $633.4 billion in June 2026 — the lowest level since September 2008. Meanwhile, the People's Bank of China has been building its gold reserves for the 21st consecutive month.

Read more →

Tuscany Becomes New Epicenter of African Swine Fever in Italy: 638 Infected Wild Boars and Threat to Farms

08/20/2026, 08:09

Tuscany has become the main focus of African swine fever in Italy: 638 infected wild boars and at least two affected farms. The virus has already spread to 14 EU countries, and people risk becoming passive carriers.

Read more →

US Housing Market Stagnant: Construction Plunges 12.4% While AI Fuels Production Growth

08/20/2026, 08:01

The U.S. Commerce Department reported that construction starts fell 12.4% in July to 1.239 million units, below forecasts. Meanwhile, production rose 0.2% on a wave of AI and defense investment.

Read more →

The Meta Trial: 29 US States Demand Removal of the 'Like' Button and Infinite Scroll

08/20/2026, 07:53

A six-week trial of 29 US states against Meta has begun in the United States: the plaintiffs are demanding billions of dollars and the removal of the 'Like' button and infinite scroll, accusing the company of creating addiction in children.

Read more →

Meta Trial: Coalition of 29 US States Demands $200 Billion Over 'Child Addiction' to Social Media

08/20/2026, 07:46

A trial has begun in Oakland, where a coalition of 29 US states is demanding approximately $200 billion from Meta for creating 'addictive' features for children. Hearings will last until October, with Zuckerberg and Mosseri named as key witnesses.

Read more →

Berlin promises 500 million euros for the repair of the damaged Chernobyl dome: Schneider brings a delegation of businessmen to Kyiv

08/20/2026, 07:39

German Environment Minister Carsten Schneider pledged in Kyiv to support Ukraine in repairing the damaged Chernobyl dome at a cost of around 500 million euros. The visit is accompanied by a delegation of German businessmen and underscores Berlin's course toward Ukraine's accession to the EU.

Read more →

Sweden Lowers Age of Criminal Responsibility to 14: Parliament Votes for Tough Law on the Eve of Elections

08/20/2026, 07:31

The Swedish parliament lowered the age of criminal responsibility to 14 and raised the maximum sentence for minors to 18 years. The law will enter into force on 10 September, three days before the general election.

Read more →

Jet-Powered Shahed at 850 km: Russia Tests New Corridors Over Western Ukraine

08/20/2026, 07:24

A Russian jet-powered UAV flew over Ukraine for more than 850 km, reaching the western oblasts. According to eRadar, Moscow is testing new penetration corridors and expanding the range of its aircraft.

Read more →

Under the Brunig Rock: Switzerland Builds Million-Franc Underground Bunkers for the Ultra-Rich's Gold and Ferraris

08/20/2026, 07:17

Swiss company Brunig Mega Safe is building a network of 20–24 underground bunkers more than 100 meters deep beneath the Brunig massif to store the gold, art, and luxury cars of ultra-wealthy clients.

Read more →

China unexpectedly accelerated the phase-out of Windows in government agencies: Beijing ordered the removal of a modified version of Windows 10

08/20/2026, 07:09

China unexpectedly accelerated the phase-out of a modified version of Windows 10, created by a joint venture between Microsoft and CETC, in government agencies. The decision was made against a backdrop of growing wariness toward American technologies.

Read more →

UAE Imposes Indefinite Trade Embargo on Iran After New Missile Strikes

08/20/2026, 07:02

The UAE imposed an indefinite trade embargo on Iran after the country's air defense system detected two ballistic missiles from Iran. Tehran rejected the accusations, calling them "baseless" and hinting at a "false flag" operation.

Read more →

China lands a rocket's first stage on solid ground for the first time: landing gear instead of a sea platform

08/20/2026, 06:54

On August 19, China successfully landed the first stage of the Zhuque-3 rocket on solid ground for the first time in history using deployable landing gear, strengthening its position in the race for reusable launch vehicles.

Read more →

Drones vs. Prisons: France Unveils Network of Thousands of Drone Drug Smuggling Deliveries

08/20/2026, 06:47

France has uncovered a large-scale network of drug smuggling into prisons using drones: in the Rhône, thousands of deliveries were reconstructed from the digital traces of UAVs, while in Strasbourg drones are obstructing the nighttime landing of medical helicopters.

Read more →

Last-minute: US delays 50% tariff on Canadian goods and agrees to pause on Colombian tariffs

08/20/2026, 06:41

Washington delayed a 50% tariff on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods less than two hours before it was due to take effect, citing a reached agreement. At the same time, the US agreed to a temporary pause on Colombian tariffs.

Read more →

The Chinese Auto Paradox: Export Soars 88% While the Domestic Market Falls for a Ninth Consecutive Month

08/20/2026, 06:34

In July 2026, car exports from China rose 88% to 923,000 units, while domestic sales fell 20% for a tenth consecutive month. Chinese brands are actively capturing the European electric vehicle market.

Read more →

Harvard to Pay $53 Million to Families of Victims of Long-Standing Organ Theft from Morgue

08/20/2026, 06:26

Harvard Medical School agreed to pay $53 million in a class-action lawsuit by donor families whose organs and body parts were stolen by morgue director Cedric Lodge. The funds will be distributed through two funds.

Read more →

The Atomic Boom in Service of AI: How Oklo, Meta, and US Tech Giants Revived Nuclear Energy

08/20/2026, 06:19

Backed by Sam Altman, startup Oklo is building microreactors for Meta's data centers, while US tech giants are massively investing in nuclear energy amid the artificial intelligence boom.

Read more →

Energy Crisis Triggers Boom in Rooftop Solar Power Plants in Southeast Asia

08/20/2026, 06:11

The conflict in Iran and rising tariffs have triggered a boom in rooftop solar power plants in Southeast Asia: in the Philippines, orders grew fivefold, and the payback period shrank to 3.1 years.

Read more →

Italian scammers posing as energy suppliers have defrauded nearly 3 million people: how the scheme works and what changed in the rules

08/20/2026, 06:04

A mUp Research study showed that in Italy nearly 3 million people became victims of energy fraud: criminals posing as gas and electricity suppliers lure out payments and data. Authorities have tightened the rules for concluding contracts.

Read more →

Venezuela Signs Contracts with US Hunt Oil and SLB for Karito Field Exploration

08/20/2026, 05:55

On August 19 at the IMAGE 2026 conference in Houston, Venezuela signed contracts with US companies Hunt Oil and SLB for the exploration of the Karito field, expanding foreign capital access to the oil and gas sector.

Read more →

Scientists Decode the Narwhal Tusk's Spiral: How Opposing Coils Keep the Tooth Straight

08/20/2026, 05:49

Using synchrotron 3D tomography, scientists described the structure of the narwhal tusk: counter-directed spirals of dentin and cementum keep the tooth straight. The tusk's function — sensory or demonstrative — remains a subject of debate.

Read more →

Thai Schools Drill for Shooting Scenarios: Students Hide Under Desks, Backpacks Checked at Entry

08/20/2026, 05:41

On August 19, shooting-response drills were held at Thai schools: students hid under desks, while backpack checks and metal detectors were strengthened at the entrance. The measures were introduced after a tragedy involving a 14-year-old shooter.

Read more →

Ebola in DR Congo: 5,021 cases, 2,378 deaths and the Bundibugyo strain with no vaccine — WHO declares a global emergency

08/20/2026, 05:34

DR Congo has recorded 5,021 Ebola cases and 2,378 deaths; the Bundibugyo strain outbreak is spreading three times faster than the 2014–2016 West African one. The WHO has declared the situation a global emergency; there is still no approved vaccine for the strain.

Read more →

Israel to Request Access from the US to the Ultra-Secret Sixth-Generation Fighter F-47

08/20/2026, 05:26

Israel intends to request from the US information on the ultra-secret sixth-generation fighter F-47, which it learned about during negotiations on the memorandum with Iran. This may signal a shift in Washington's policy on ally access to advanced technologies.

Read more →

"Dates with Natalie": How Trump Aide Natalie Harp Became the Center of a Political Scandal in Washington

08/20/2026, 05:19

Democratic Senator John Ossoff stated in a campaign speech that Trump is more occupied with "dates with Natalie" than with presidential duties. In Washington, this sparked a debate over the influence of the 35-year-old aide Natalie Harp.

Read more →

Denmark Sends Conscription Troops to Greenland for the First Time Amid Dispute With the US

08/20/2026, 05:09

The Danish military has deployed approximately 100 conscripts from the Schleswig Infantry Regiment to Greenland for the first time. The recruits are joining Operation "Arctic Endurance," launched against the backdrop of the dispute between Copenhagen and Washington.

Read more →

Macron Signs Euthanasia Law: France Joins the Club of Countries with Legalized Assisted Suicide

08/20/2026, 05:02

On August 19, Macron signed a law allowing euthanasia (assisted suicide) for adults with incurable illnesses. The Constitutional Council confirmed its constitutionality but required clarification of the norms on freedom of conscience.

Read more →

Pentagon Demands Audit of Foreign Ties from 30 US Universities by August 31

08/20/2026, 04:57

The Pentagon has required 30 American universities to conduct an audit of their foreign academic and research ties, including those with organizations linked to the Confucius Institutes, by August 31, 2026. Non-compliance risks the loss of federal funding.

Read more →

mRNA Vaccine for Skin Cancer: Moderna and Merck Announce Historic Phase III Trial Success

08/20/2026, 04:50

On August 19, Moderna and Merck announced the successful completion of Phase III of an mRNA vaccine against melanoma: a combined regimen with a 49% reduction in recurrence risk paves the way for licensing personalized cancer therapy.

Read more →

Putin Orders Government to Rebuild Warehouses After Month-Long Ukrainian Operation: Key Statements of August 19

08/20/2026, 04:43

Putin ordered the government to restore warehouses damaged during a month-long Ukrainian operation since July 18 and declared economic growth. On August 19, the sides exchanged 103 prisoners each.

Read more →

Landslide at Gold Mine in CAR: At Least 100 Dead, No Official Figures Yet

08/20/2026, 04:35

In the Central African Republic, at least 100 people were killed in a landslide at a gold mine 50 km from the town of Bafou. Official figures on the victims are not yet available, and rescue operations are ongoing.

Read more →

Iran Aims at Europe: NATO Warns of Readiness to Intercept Any Threat

08/20/2026, 04:28

Amid reports of a possible Iranian strike on American bases in Europe, NATO declared its readiness to stand up to any threat. The Financial Times points to Bulgaria and Cyprus as potential targets.

Read more →

Iran Threatens Persian Gulf States: Support for US Military Will Be Treated as Participation in Combat Operations

08/20/2026, 04:18

On August 19, Iran warned the states of the Persian Gulf that support for US military forces would be treated as participation in combat operations. The statement came after the UAE suspended trade with Tehran.

Read more →

Kim Yo-jong said she "knows nothing" about Pyongyang's contacts with Washington, while Trump confirmed plans to meet Kim Jong Un

08/20/2026, 04:09

Kim Yo-jong said she "knows nothing" about Pyongyang's contacts with Washington, but confirmed her brother's warm relations with Trump. On the same day, Trump confirmed plans for a meeting, while Pyongyang rejected the gesture of shortening the drills.

Read more →

NATO Confirms Readiness to Defend US Bases in Europe: What Lies Behind the Alliance's Statement

08/20/2026, 04:01

NATO has declared its readiness to defend US military bases in Europe. The statement fits within the alliance's course of producing US weapons in Europe and reacting to the conflict with Iran, although experts dispute whether such bases guarantee security for allies.

Read more →

Tehran: No Frozen Assets Returned After Expiry of the Islamabad Memorandum with the US

08/20/2026, 03:53

The head of Iran's Central Bank stated that not a single frozen asset abroad has been unblocked after the expiry of the Islamabad Memorandum with the US. Estimates of the value of the blocked funds exceed 100 billion dollars.

Read more →

Power grid failure in Brovary after overnight strike: energy workers await stabilization of the situation

08/20/2026, 03:46

In the Brovary hromada, power supply facilities were damaged due to an enemy attack, and energy workers are awaiting stabilization of the situation. In Kyiv, debris fell in several districts, and a children's hospital was damaged.

Read more →

HarmonyOS 6 Crosses 80 Million Devices: Huawei Accelerates Its Push Against Android and iOS

08/20/2026, 03:40

Huawei's HarmonyOS 6 is installed on more than 80 million devices and is rapidly becoming the main competitor to Android and iOS. More than 170,000 new gadgets are activated daily, and the company's goal is 100 million by the end of 2026.

Read more →

British Voltempo Unveils Cabless Autonomous Truck: 42 Tonnes and 15.6 Metres Long

08/20/2026, 03:33

British Voltempo has unveiled a cabless autonomous truck project that is 15.6 m long and weighs 42 tonnes. Series production is scheduled for the end of 2027, with the first deliveries in 2028.

Read more →

Elon Musk vs. Goldman Sachs: The Space Economy by 2035 Will Be 'Far Larger' Than $1.8 Trillion

08/20/2026, 03:26

Elon Musk called Goldman Sachs' forecast of the global space industry reaching $1.8 trillion by 2035 overly cautious, stating that the real market will be far larger.

Read more →

NASA published images of the crater left on the Moon by the fallen Falcon 9 stage

08/20/2026, 03:20

NASA published detailed images of the crater left on the Moon by the Falcon 9 upper stage that struck its surface. The impact occurred on August 5, 2026, at a speed of about 8,700 km/h.

Read more →

SpaceX Completes Its 100th Launch of 2026: Falcon 9 Deploys 24 Starlink Satellites

08/20/2026, 03:13

On August 19, SpaceX carried out its 100th launch since the beginning of 2026: a Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Base deployed 24 Starlink satellites into orbit. Of the 100 launches, 97 were performed by Falcon 9, and 74 missions were related to expanding the Starlink constellation.

Read more →

Hyundai Unveils Fifth-Generation Tucson: Bigger, Bolder, and Featuring X-Shaped Lighting

08/20/2026, 03:04

Hyundai has officially unveiled the fifth generation of the Tucson crossover: the model is larger, features X-shaped lighting, a wheelbase extended by 100 mm, and an interior in the style of the Ioniq 3. The manufacturer has not yet disclosed the engines.

Read more →