Ukraine

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has clarified the procedure for exchanging driver's licenses after the expiration of the 2-year validity period. The exchange is possible online or at a service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, provided there are no more than 2 traffic violations.

The Verkhovna Rada plans to consider Draft Law No. 9139 on grapes and viticulture products. The document regulates the production and sale of grapes and wine, as well as the protection of geographical indications.

Political consultations between Ukraine and Indonesia took place in Kyiv. The parties discussed bilateral cooperation, the situation in Ukraine, the second in Ukraine, the second Peace Summit, the global agenda and prospects for Ukraine's cooperation with ASEAN were discussed.

The Verkhovna Rada plans to consider a draft law on social protection of children affected by Russian aggression. Experts point to the lack of financial justification for the initiative.

The United States will provide Ukraine with additional security assistance packages in the coming days. This was confirmed by a White House spokesperson after the US and Ukrainian defense ministers spoke about the situation at the front and defense needs.

Two people, including a military officer, were detained in Odesa region for trying to sell two armored minibuses brought in as humanitarian aid. The suspects face up to 7 years in prison for the illegal sale of humanitarian aid.

The President of Belarus has declared his readiness to use nuclear weapons if foreign troops cross the border. He emphasized that this applies to the borders of the “Union State” with Russia.

President Zelenskyy called on the Rada to convene immediately to consider defense legislation. The issues of trophy weapons, citizenship of foreigners in the legions, and the ban on the UOC-MP are expected to be considered.

Ukrhydroenergo has announced the procurement of legal services for international arbitration regarding Kakhovka HPP. The expected value is UAH 365 million, and the term of services is until the end of 2031.

Law enforcers detained three people who set fire to military off-road vehicles on the orders of Russia. Two of the suspects acted in Prykarpattia, and one in Kharkiv. They face up to 10 years in prison.

The Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff presented a strategy for the return of Ukrainians from Russian captivity. The President instructed the agencies to hold a briefing and engage civil society organizations in this work.

The President called on the Rada to meet immediately to consider the defense package. The issues include trophy weapons, citizenship of foreign legionnaires, and depriving traitors of state awards.

Commander-in-Chief Syrsky declared the situation in eastern and southern Ukraine under control. The Ukrainian Armed Forces advanced 35 km in the Kursk region of the Russian Federation, taking control of 82 settlements and establishing a military commandant's office.

The second edition of the Education of Wonderland forum expands its format to an educational festival. The event will combine a forum on the future of education and an exhibition of educational opportunities, bringing together more than 100 institutions and 30 speakers.

Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky announced the establishment of a military commandant's office in the Ukrainian-controlled territory of Kursk region. The Ukrainian Armed Forces took control of 82 settlements, advancing 35 kilometers and controlling more than 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory.

In Ukraine, on August 16-18, heat is forecast to reach +37° in the southern and central regions. In the west and north, short-term rains with thunderstorms are possible, while in other regions it will be mostly without precipitation.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi had a telephone conversation with Li Hui on the situation in Ukraine. The parties expressed their concern and emphasized the need for dialogue to achieve a just peace.

The director of a private company from Kyiv region won a tender for 1,000 FPV drones for the Armed Forces, but delivered low-quality drones. The suspect faces up to 12 years in prison for embezzlement on a large scale.

Latvia has provided medical rehabilitation to over 540 wounded Ukrainian soldiers. The country will continue to support Ukraine by sending humanitarian aid and accepting wounded soldiers for treatment.

The number of medal winners among school graduates in Ukraine has increased by 141% in 6 years. The Education Ombudsman proposes to revise the awarding system, as medals do not give advantages when applying to universities.

Ukrainian ports are highly efficient, exporting not only raw materials but also finished products.

The Ministry of Defense has launched the Iron Range project for free testing of weapons by Ukrainian manufacturers. Manufacturers will have access to testing grounds, expertise and advice to optimize their developments.

The entry of the Ukrainian Armed Forces into the territory of the Russian Federation dealt a significant blow to Putin's reputation and showed the incapacity of the Russian authorities. This may affect Ukraine's position at the upcoming Peace Summit and the attitude of partners to Russia's “red lines.

Brovary is developing a comprehensive IDP support program that covers employment, housing and social adaptation. Local authorities are actively promoting the integration of IDPs into the community.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces allegedly used British Challenger 2 tanks during an offensive in the Kursk region of Russia. This may be the first time that these tanks have been used by Ukrainian troops in Russia.

Germany's economic growth has slowed to a historic low. The expert believes that the main problem is the debt brake policy and suggests reforming the social assistance system.

Economic expert Oleksandr Okhrimenko emphasizes the importance of supporting existing and creating new enterprises by local authorities. This provides jobs, salaries and filling local budgets through tax deductions.

Olympic champion Yaroslava Mahuchikh donated 1 million UAH from her prize money to help animals. The funds were received by UAnimals and four animal shelters to provide them with medicine, food, and a warm place.

Serhii Horbachov stated that he has not yet been dismissed from the position of education ombudsman. The dismissal will take place in the coming days due to the expiration of the 5-year term of office, and not due to any complaints about his work.

Advisor to the head of the OP pointed the finger at Russia in case of the explosions on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. Podolyak stated that Ukraine has no relation to the incident and did not receive any benefits from it.