A fallen sculpture and a desert storm: photos of the day – Tuesday

Ukrainian philosopher Volodymyr Yermolenko discussed the impact of international support on the morale of Ukrainians living under constant threat from Russian attacks during an interview with FRANCE 24. His comments coincided with the launch of 'Le voyage en Ukraine,' a cultural initiative in France aimed at supporting Ukraine's artistic community through a series of events featuring French artists.

The city of Pokrovsk, once a strategic stronghold in eastern Ukraine, has been devastated after an 18-month battle, with Russian forces claiming full control while Ukrainian officials assert they still hold parts of the city. This conflict has escalated significantly since the summer of 2024, marking a critical phase in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia is set to undergo a significant overhaul, with funding and support plans for participants to be generated by a computer program, drastically reducing human involvement in the decision-making process. This change was communicated to staff during a recent internal briefing and is expected to be implemented next year.

A recent report by the e61 Institute indicates that the Albanese government's ban on credit card use for online gambling has had minimal impact on Australia's heaviest gamblers, who have largely transitioned to using transaction accounts for their wagering activities. The reform aimed to curb gambling-related harm but has revealed potential loopholes that dedicated bettors can exploit.

An industrial boom in Monterrey, Mexico, which has strong ties to the US, is leading to severe air pollution as factories emit toxic heavy metals, posing significant health risks to local residents. Research by The Guardian and Quinto Elemento Lab highlights the alarming situation in this manufacturing hub that primarily exports goods to the US.

A U.S. delegation, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss potential peace talks aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Kremlin has expressed openness to negotiations but insists that its war objectives must be met, raising concerns about the sincerity of its commitment to peace. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is engaged in discussions with leaders from the UK and France, emphasizing the international dimension of the conflict.

U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss a revised peace plan for Ukraine, following prior negotiations with Ukrainian officials that were deemed productive. This visit marks a significant step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

A documentary about Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand's former prime minister, portrays her as a relatable and vulnerable leader, contrasting with typical political personas. The film highlights her humanity during her tenure from 2017 to 2023, showcasing moments that reveal her genuine character, including a candid exchange with her partner, Clarke Gayford.