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Ukrainian Prisoners Report Torture and Abuse in Russian Detention

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Former Ukrainian prisoners and officials have accused Russian authorities of systematically torturing Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees, alleging beatings, electric shocks, sexual abuse, starvation and inhumane detention conditions. Russia rejected the allegations at an informal U.N. Security Council meeting, calling them a “disinformation campaign” and making counter-allegations about the treatment of Russian prisoners in Ukraine.

Former detainee Khuan Alberto Levya Garsiya said he endured 1,183 days in captivity and experienced repeated physical and psychological abuse, including beatings, electrocution, forced exercises in freezing conditions and sexual abuse. He said two of his friends were beaten to death in detention, while overcrowding, illness and inadequate food were widespread among prisoners.

U.N. officials said their monitoring indicated that torture and ill-treatment of Ukrainian POWs and civilian detainees remained widespread and systematic. The U.N. said more than 95% of Ukrainian POWs interviewed reported torture or mistreatment, while more than half reported sexual violence. Ukrainian authorities say thousands of people remain in Russian captivity, with Kyiv identifying more than 300 detention sites in Russia and occupied Ukrainian territories.

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Poland and Baltics Tighten Infrastructure Security Amid Russian False-Flag Fears

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Poland and the Baltic states are strengthening security around critical infrastructure amid concerns that Russia could stage a false-flag attack using Ukrainian-made drones. Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland have increased protection around power plants, gas facilities, dams and other strategic sites, as officials warn of potential sabotage aimed at testing NATO’s response.

Lithuania has deployed military personnel to help protect key energy facilities, including its liquefied natural gas terminal, oil products terminal, a major power link with Poland and the Kruonis pumped-storage plant. Latvia has also stepped up security around critical infrastructure, including a major dam near Riga and an underground gas storage facility. Poland is reviewing alternative gas supply routes and increasing protection around energy infrastructure and its planned first nuclear power plant.

Regional officials said intelligence assessments have raised concerns that a potential attack could create political confusion within NATO over how to respond. Russia has rejected the allegations, describing warnings of secret Russian attacks as “scare stories” and accusing Western countries of making claims without evidence. Officials across the region say they are maintaining heightened vigilance as tensions with Moscow remain high.

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Etna Eruption Sends Ash Cloud Over Sicily, Disrupting Catania Airport

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Flights arriving at Catania airport in eastern Sicily were suspended on Monday after ash from an eruption of Mount Etna drifted into the area’s airspace. Airport operator SAC said arrivals were halted until 1500 GMT, while passengers were advised to check with their airlines before travelling to the airport.

Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, was continuing to erupt from vents at elevations of around 2,750 and 2,360 metres. Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology said the activity was producing several lava flows and extensive lava fields on the volcano’s slopes.

The volcanic ash posed a significant risk to aircraft, prompting aviation authorities to maintain their highest red alert level. SAC said airport operations and weather conditions were being closely monitored, with further changes possible depending on the development of the eruption.

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Spain Checks Italy Arrivals as Migration Dispute Triggers Border Controls

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Spain checked nearly 200 travellers arriving from Italy at six major airports on the first day of newly reinstated border controls, following a growing dispute with Rome over irregular migration. Spain’s Interior Ministry said 199 passengers on 12 flights were checked at airports in Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Bilbao, Alicante and Valencia.

The controls, covering flights and ships from Italy, are scheduled to remain in place until September 7. Spain introduced the measures after Italy suspended the Schengen border-free travel arrangements with Spain, following a surge in migration to Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta. Italy has said its own controls will remain in place until at least August 15 and will mainly target non-EU nationals arriving from Spain.

The dispute has raised concerns over temporary restrictions within Europe’s passport-free Schengen Area, which includes 29 countries. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Rome hopes to lift its measures soon if the risk associated with irregular migration decreases.

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AfD Leads in Eastern Germany Ahead of Elections Despite Economic Concerns

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Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is leading polls in two eastern states ahead of September elections, despite economists warning that some of the party’s policies could hurt the regions’ already fragile economies. The AfD is polling at around 41% in Saxony-Anhalt and 36% in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, where shrinking populations, labour shortages and lower incomes remain major challenges.

Experts say economic frustration and a lingering sense of being left behind since German reunification are important drivers of AfD support in the east. Both states have lost large numbers of young people, while ageing populations have contributed to severe skilled-worker shortages. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s GDP per capita is around 76% of Germany’s national average, while Saxony-Anhalt has the country’s highest proportion of pension-age residents.

Economists argue that AfD proposals, including reducing immigration, cutting state spending and potentially leaving the euro and European Union, could further weaken the region. A DIW Berlin study estimates Saxony-Anhalt could lose around €1,600 in annual income per person and 10,000 jobs under such policies. At the same time, local initiatives such as internationalising university programmes and attracting young talent are showing alternative ways for eastern Germany to address its labour and economic challenges.

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Italian Scientists Prepare New Solar Instrument for Crucial Eclipse Test

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Italian scientists are preparing to put a new solar instrument through a crucial test during the August 12 total solar eclipse in Spain. The Circular Slit Spectrometer (CISS), developed over 2½ years, will be tested at the Javalambre Astrophysical Observatory to determine whether it can study the Sun’s corona faster than existing instruments.

Unlike conventional spectrometers that scan the corona line by line, CISS uses a circular slit to capture the spectrum of the entire corona at a specific distance from the Sun in a single photograph. Scientists say this could provide a major advantage because the corona can change significantly within minutes, making slower observations less effective.

If the test succeeds, the technology could eventually be used in a future space mission to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere. The team travelled by road from Italy to Spain, carrying the instrument in a van to avoid dismantling it and reduce the risk of delays caused by possible flight disruptions. The researchers now face a brief window of totality where weather, coordination and precise execution will be critical.

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Aditri Gouri Crowned Unique Times and DQUE Watches Teen India Glam World 2026

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The Unique Times and DQUE Watches Teen India Glam World 2026 celebrated the spirit of young talent, confidence, and determination, bringing together aspiring achievers from across the country to showcase their personality, intelligence, and charisma. The grand event was held on August 9, 2026, at Le Méridien Kochi, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.

Aditri Gouri (Kerala) was crowned the winner of Teen India Glam World 2026, while Bhanu Bhaskaran (Kerala) secured the First Runner-Up position and Aishwarya Asheed was named the Second Runner-Up. Last year’s winner, Alona Angel James, crowned the winner. The First Runner-Up was crowned by Ishani Laiju, Teen India Glam World 2023, while the Second Runner-Up was jointly crowned by SAJ Group of Hotels Director Annie Varghese and Parakkat Jewels Managing Director Preethi Parakkat. The crowning took place in the presence of Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder and Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.

The contestants were evaluated by an eminent panel of judges comprising Geethu Christy, pageant winner and personality development mentor; Pooja Mohan, Mrs India Global and Mrs Glam World 2023; Dr. Varna Sampath, Mrs India Global 2026; and Reji Bhaskar, celebrity fashion photographer. Their expertise and experience played a vital role in selecting the winners of the prestigious competition.

Teen India Glam World serves as a platform where talent meets determination and confidence takes center stage, inspiring young individuals to pursue their dreams while celebrating excellence, grace, and leadership. The event once again highlighted the commitment of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd. to empowering the next generation of achievers.

Sub Titles

  1. Teen India Popularity Queen – Ameya P D
  2. Teen India Talent – Aishwarya Asheed
  3. Teen India Inspiring – Anaya Teres Biju
  4. Teen India Vivacious – Kanchana S
  5. Teen India Ramp Walk – Ritu Rakesh
  6. Teen India Congeniality – Sanjana S
  7. Teen India Fashionista – Bhanu Bhaskaran

The powered by partners were FICF, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, Alcazar Watches, Vibe Munnar, Parakkat Resorts, Green Media, and Bright Outdoor Media Ltd, whose support contributed to the success of the event. The event’s co-partners included DQUE 78 TFM Grade One Soap, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, Europe Times, UT World, Times New, uniquetimes.org, Vikas VKS Make-Up Artist, Snapshot Wedding Company, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Akshay Inco, and VKS Beauty and Bridal Lounge.

More than just a beauty pageant, the platform encourages participants to embrace confidence, develop their individuality, and strive for excellence. The event concluded on a high note, celebrating the achievements, aspirations, and remarkable potential of young talents from across India.

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Kerala’s Sruthy K Bags the Mrs South India 2026 Crown

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The prestigious Unique Times and DQUE Watches Mrs South India 2026 was held on August 9, 2026, at Le Méridien Kochi. Sruthy K (Kerala) was crowned the winner, while Sharanya R (Tamil Nadu) secured the First Runner-Up position and Surya Suresh (Kerala) was named the Second Runner-Up.

Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder and Chairman of Pegasus Global, crowned the winner with a golden crown. Parakkat Jewels Managing Director Preethi Parakkat crowned the First Runner-Up, while SAJ Group of Hotels Director Annie Varghese crowned the Second Runner-Up. Bringing together talented contestants from across the South Indian states, the pageant celebrated beauty, confidence, elegance, and individuality. Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd., Mrs South India serves as a prestigious platform for married women to showcase their talent, grace, and inspiring personalities.

The judging panel comprised Geethu Christy (Pageant Winner and Personality Development Mentor), Pooja Mohan (Mrs India Global and Mrs Glam World 2023), Dr. Varna Sampath (Mrs India Global 2026), and Reji Bhaskar (Celebrity Fashion Photographer). The winners of the subtitles were selected by a panel of eminent persons.

Regional Title Winners
• Mrs Tamilnadu – Sharanya R
• Mrs Kerala Global – Viviya Santh B
• Mrs Karnataka – Swati
• Mrs Andhra – Kiran Kalsi
• Mrs Telangana – Ritu Agarwal

Subtitle Winners
• Mrs Popularity Queen – Swati
• Mrs Talent – Viviya Santh B
• Mrs Inspiring – Kiran Kalsi
• Mrs Vivacious – Rini Mary Jose
• Mrs Ramp Walk – Sharon Aimeida
• Mrs Congeniality – Dhivya G
• Mrs Fashionista – Swati

The powered by partners were FICF, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, Alcazar Watches, Vibe Munnar, Parakkat Resorts, and Bright Outdoor Media Ltd, whose support contributed to the success of the event. The event’s co-partners included DQUE 78 TFM Grade One Soap, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, Europe Times, UT World, Times New, uniquetimes.org, Vikas VKS Make-Up Artist, Snapshot Wedding Company, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Akshay Inco, Green Media, and VKS Beauty and Bridal Lounge.

With its blend of glamour, talent, and empowerment, Mrs South India reaffirmed its legacy as one of South India’s most prestigious pageants, recognizing women who embody grace, strength, and excellence.

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Siri H S Wins the Coveted Unique Times and DQUE Watches Miss South India 2026 Crown

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The 24th edition of Unique Times and DQUE Watches Miss South India 2026, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd., was held on August 9, 2026, at Le Méridien Kochi. Siri H S (Karnataka) was crowned the winner, while Nidhika Sonu Augustine (Kerala) secured the First Runner-Up position and Harini Anand (Karnataka) was named the Second Runner-Up.

The winners were announced and the crowning ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder and Chairman of Pegasus Global. The winner was crowned by Ashwarea Ulhas, 2025 Miss Glam Universe First Runner-Up, along with Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder and Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, and Jebitha Ajit, Managing Director of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd.

Dr. Jolly Antony, Chairman of Vibe Munnar Resort & Spa, and Annie Varghese, Director of SAJ Group of Hotels, crowned the First Runner-Up, while Preethi Parakkat, Managing Director of Parakkat Jewels, and Deepthi Vijayakumar, Managing Director of Aiswaria OOH Media, crowned the Second Runner-Up. The winners were presented with golden tiaras specially designed by Preethi Parakkat of Parakkat Jewels. Contestants selected through various stages from numerous applicants across South India competed for the prestigious title.

The esteemed judging panel included Rinky Shah (Entrepreneur, Fashion Icon and Beauty Influencer), Punam Chetry (Fashion Influencer, Designer and Model), Ashwarea Ulhas (First Runner-Up, Miss Glam Universe 2025; Second Runner-Up, Miss Asia Global 2025; First Runner-Up, Miss Queen Kerala 2025), Pournami Murali (Miss India Glam World 2026), and Rashmi Thakur (Miss Planet India 2016, Humanitarian Leader, Cultural Advocate and Social Activist).

Regional title winners

  1. Miss Tamil Nadu – Nikhithaa Prabhuram
  2. Miss Queen Kerala – Nidhika Sonu Augustine
  3. Miss Queen Karnataka – Jaanvi Mishra
  4. Miss Queen Andhra – Madhura Sahithi
  5. Miss Queen Telangana – Sana Qaiyum

Subtitle winners:

  1. Miss Popularity Queen – Siri H S
  2. Miss Talent – Gayathri Govindaraaj
  3. Miss Inspiring – Harini Anand
  4. Miss Vivacious – Evangelin Sona
  5. Miss Ramp Walk – Jaanvi Mishra
  6. Miss Congeniality – Niveditha Sadasivam
  7. Miss Fashionista – Nidhika Sonu Augustine

The powered by partners were FICF, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, Alcazar Watches, Vibe Munnar, Parakkat Resorts, Green Media, and Bright Outdoor Media Ltd, whose support contributed to the success of the event. The event’s co-partners included DQUE 78 TFM Grade One Soap, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, Europe Times, UT World, Times New, uniquetimes.org, Vikas VKS Make-Up Artist, Roopesh Mokeri Photography and Snapshot Wedding Company, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Akshay Inco, and VKS Beauty and Bridal Lounge.

Bringing together talent from across South India, the pageant provided a platform for young women to showcase their grace, confidence, and individuality, making this edition a truly unforgettable event.

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Manappuram Unique Times Business Summit 2026 Puts Healthcare and Wellness Tourism in Focus

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The Unique Times Business Summit 2026, presented by Manappuram Finance Ltd and organized by Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd., was successfully held on August 9, 2026, at Le Méridien Kochi. Powered by FICF, INMECC, Alcazar Watches, Vibe Munnar and DQUE T-Shirts, the summit brought together distinguished leaders from the healthcare, hospitality, tourism and business sectors to deliberate on the theme, “Transforming Tourism Through Hospitality, Healthcare & Wellness.”

The function was inaugurated by Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd. The discussion was moderated by M. P. Joseph IAS, former IAS officer and former United Nations civil servant.

The summit featured an eminent panel comprising Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd.; Dr. S. Sajikumar, Chief Physician and Managing Director of Dhathri Ayurveda Hospital & Panchakarma Centre; Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram, Founder and Chairman of Heart Care Foundation; Shri James Mathew, CEO and Managing Partner of UHY James; Prof. (Dr.) Suresh H. Advani, Chairman of Smita Memorial Hospital and Research Centre; Shri Manu G, Airport Director of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL); and Shri Rajesh Malik, Promoter of Carnoustie Ayurvedic & Wellness Resort.

The panel discussion explored the growing synergy between tourism, hospitality, healthcare and wellness, highlighting Kerala’s potential as a global destination for medical tourism and holistic wellness experiences. The speakers collectively emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainable development and strategic collaborations in enhancing the tourism ecosystem and strengthening the state’s position on the international stage.

The summit, led by Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd., served as a significant platform for industry experts and policymakers to exchange ideas on the future of wellness-driven tourism. The event reinforced the need for integrated approaches that combine healthcare excellence, world-class hospitality and sustainable tourism practices to drive economic growth and global recognition.

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