Submit your Article

At least 31 people, including five children, were killed in Russia’s worst airstrike on Kyiv this year, Ukrainian officials confirmed. The attack, involving over 300 drones and missiles, caused severe damage, including a collapsed apartment block in the Sviatoshyn district, according to Reuters.

President Zelensky said rescue efforts had ended and promised support for victims. In Kharkiv, a separate drone strike injured 10, including three children.

US President Trump condemned Russia’s actions as “disgusting” and warned of economic pressure if Putin doesn’t make a deal by August 8, Reuters reported.

A federal appeals court has upheld a temporary ban on immigration-related arrests in Los Angeles without probable cause, rejecting the Trump administration’s challenge.

The ruling backs claims by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and several Southern California cities that federal agents used racial profiling and targeted people based on language, appearance, or location, according to Reuters.

Mayor Karen Bass called the decision a victory for the city, while the ACLU said it reaffirms that such enforcement tactics are unconstitutional and harmful.

US President Trump has fired Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner Erika McEntarfer, accusing her of manipulating job numbers to favor Kamala Harris’s election chances.

The move followed a disappointing July jobs report and came without evidence. McEntarfer, appointed by former President Biden and confirmed with bipartisan support, was criticized by Trump as a political appointee, according to Xinhua.

Economist Gary Hufbauer called the firing politically driven and warned it could raise concerns about the independence of economic data.

Brazil has strongly criticized the US decision to hike tariffs on its exports and sanction Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, calling it a violation of national sovereignty, Xinhua reported.

The new tariffs, rising up to 50 percent, will hit key exports like coffee and meat. Some products, including orange juice and iron ore, were exempted.

President Lula called the move unacceptable, while Vice President Alckmin said over a third of exports to the US will be affected. The government plans financial support and tax relief for impacted sectors, according to Xinhua.

Business leaders warn of job losses and trade disruption.

The World Bank will provide $700m to help the Philippines reduce vulnerability to natural disasters and climate change. The funding is part of an $874.35m project, with the Philippine government covering the remaining $174.35m, Xinhua reported.

Around 18 million households are expected to benefit through improved infrastructure and community planning. The Philippines ranks among the world’s most disaster-prone countries, according to the World Bank.

Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has been sentenced to 12 years of house arrest for witness tampering and procedural fraud — the first criminal conviction of a former president in the country’s history, Al Jazeera reported.

A judge in Bogota also barred Uribe from public office for over eight years and fined him around $825,000. The case dates back to 2012 and led to a years-long investigation. Uribe says he will appeal the ruling.

Friendship is perhaps the purest form of mutual support—a bond built not on obligation, but on choice, trust, and understanding. On International Friendship Day, we celebrate the connections that bring light to our darkest days, laughter to our routines, and strength when we need it most. True friends stand beside us through life’s highs and lows, offering not just company, but genuine care, empathy, and encouragement. As an ode to that kind of relationship, ApEx spoke to three people about what friendship means to them and their most special bond. 

Rikav Hussain, 26

To me, friendship brings to mind Dipesh or Dalle who has been my friend for the past eight years. I still remember seeing him for the first time in college. He felt like an extension of  me. We haven’t talked often since he went to Australia, and I’ve only met him once since he returned. Friends are meant to support you in times of need but not every friendship should be built on that expectation. Some friendships are more beautiful when they’re free from that kind of pressure. Anyway, let me just say our friendship hasn’t ended. Just like love doesn’t truly die, neither does friendship. These feelings, these energies—once created—can’t be destroyed. Even if someone claims they’ve moved on from love or friendship, I don’t believe it. That emotional energy still exists, somewhere, and it can resurface at any time. I will always have fond memories of Dipesh and wish him well. 

Reshu Ingnam, 34

When I think of friendship, I remember Semi. There was an instant connection, a comfort in each other’s presence that didn’t need words or time to build. It just happened naturally. Unfortunately, she’s not a part of my life anymore. To me, true friendship is about growing together, supporting each other’s dreams, and holding space even when life gets busy or complicated. But sometimes, despite the love and bond, people grow in different directions. There wasn’t a single reason or a falling out, it was just life. Responsibilities, distance, and time created a gap we couldn’t bridge. Still, that doesn’t take away from what we shared. The laughter, the comfort, and the small talks are all precious memories I carry with me. Semi was a meaningful part of my life. She was more than a friend. She was family. A part of her will always live in my heart. If our paths cross again, I hope we can smile at the memories we made together.

Norkey Wangmu Yolmo, 34

Choden is the friend that I remember every time someone asks me to think of a special friend. Working at the same organization has brought us closer through shared interests, experiences, and commitments. We’re on a similar path, facing similar challenges, and whenever those challenges or differences arise, we always take the time to listen, reflect, and find a meaningful conclusion together. What makes our friendship even more special is that we both understand the importance of fun and laughter. No matter how busy life gets, we always make time—whether it’s a quick catch-up or a longer hangout session. Choden isn’t just my best friend. Choden is my chosen family. Thank you for always standing by me, for knowing how to make me laugh exactly when I need it, and for reminding me of who I am when I lose sight of myself. Friendship comes with its own pros and cons. What is needed is trust and faith in the role of friends. 

How can I make deeper connections instead of superficial friendships?

Answered by Rika Rijal, consultant psychiatrist

In an age of social media and fast-paced living, many of us find ourselves surrounded by people, yet feel deeply alone. Surface-level friendships may fill our calendars but not our hearts. So how do we go deeper?

True connection begins with authenticity. Drop the mask. Be willing to show your real self—your fears, hopes, even your awkwardness. Vulnerability invites vulnerability. When you open up, you give others permission to do the same.

Next, listen to understand, not just to respond. Ask thoughtful questions. Remember details. Be present. Emotional intimacy doesn’t come from talking more. It comes from listening better.

Shared experiences matter. Spend time in meaningful activities together: volunteering, traveling, or even having deep conversations without distractions. These moments create emotional anchors.

Lastly, consistency builds trust. Check in. Show up. Keep your word. Depth takes time, but the investment is worth it.

In a world that often celebrates the highlight reel, choose to stay for the full story. Real friendships are not found but built. Also, in this fast paced world, ambition is often glorified, while rest is mistaken for laziness. This imbalance can lead to burnout. People feel exhausted, emotionally drained, and disconnected from their purpose. So, they have issues creating deep connections with fellow people.

It’s important to set boundaries, and to listen to your mind and body. Value deep friendships as a foundation for long-term success. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.