POW Torture Claims: Former Ukrainian prisoners and UN officials told the UN Security Council that over 95% of interviewed Ukrainian POWs report torture and ill-treatment, including electric shocks and sexual violence, as Russia rejects the allegations as disinformation. North Korea–Russia Escalation: Zelenskyy says Russia used North Korean ballistic missiles in overnight strikes that killed civilians in Zaporizhzhia and elsewhere, while South Korea again ruled out lethal aid and stuck to humanitarian and reconstruction support. Frontline Life in Sumy: In Sumy region, daily shelling, guided bombs, and mass evacuations are blurring the line between “front” and “rear,” with residents weighing whether to leave or stay as universities and cafés keep operating. Ukrainian Drone Threat in Kharkiv: Authorities say FPV drones are pushing deeper into Kharkiv, prompting evacuations of over 1,200 people (including 161 children) from dangerous areas. Bulgaria Drone Incident: A drone explosion near the Bulgaria–Romania border sparked diplomatic friction after Bulgaria said it was a Ukrainian-made Maya decoy, while Ukraine promised cooperation to clarify what happened. Cyberattack on Water in Poland: Poland charged two Russian nationals over cyberattacks on water and wastewater plants, exploiting default passwords and disrupting supply to about 2,500 residents. Culture & Film: Norway’s Ukrainian Independence Film Days in Drammen (Aug 22–24) will screen 11 Ukrainian films, including family favorites, to mark Ukraine’s 35th independence anniversary. Learning Under War: A Kyiv-based explainer on how online courses get made in Ukraine highlights the human and logistical risks behind “just 100 minutes” of learning. Independence Day Support: Kyiv plans one-time financial assistance for nearly 255,000 residents ahead of Independence Day.