Western leaders and media discuss a potential new Russian invasion of Ukraine, but for Ukrainians, armed conflict has been a reality for nearly eight years. In Mariupol, residents have adapted to the ongoing threat, with local leaders preparing defense strategies. In Toretsk, close to occupied Donetsk, locals remain calm, believing a full-scale offensive is unlikely. In Sumy Oblast, bordering Russia, there is concern over the lack of border defenses, with plans to fortify the border only set to begin in 2022. Local perspectives vary, but there is a general sense of resilience and preparedness among Ukrainians living near the frontlines.

Indiana's near-total abortion ban has been in effect for nearly a year, restricting access to care with only a few exceptions. The full impact on residents will take time to be reflected in data.

Ukraine is home to numerous ethnic minorities, including Crimean Tatars, Ukrainian Greeks, and Roma activists, who are actively standing up for their rights and culture. This initiative is supported by the International Renaissance Foundation as part of the Stories from Ukraine project.

The article discusses the repression of Crimean Tatars by Russian authorities, particularly focusing on the so-called second Bakhchisaray Hizb ut-Tahrir trial where several Crimean Tatars were sentenced to long prison terms on false terrorism charges. Human rights defenders and journalists have been targeted, with many leaving Crimea after its annexation. The article highlights the inhumane conditions and torture faced by Ukrainian political prisoners, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Human rights organizations are calling for international support to protect these prisoners, with the Center for Civil Liberties launching a petition to this end. The struggle for the release of Ukrainian prisoners of the Kremlin continues amid the pandemic.

Valery Lypynsky, a Ukrainian soldier, reflects on his transformation from a Russian-speaking individual to a Ukrainian patriot since the Maidan revolution in 2014. He leads an international combat unit that has participated in liberating Kyiv and Chernihiv Oblasts and conducts reconnaissance around Kharkiv. Lypynsky, who previously served in the Aidar battalion and founded Veterano Coffee, emphasizes the high morale and experience of his unit, which includes foreign fighters. He acknowledges the significant support from the international community, including the provision of anti-tank weapons and the expertise of American veterans. Despite the heavy casualties reported by President Zelensky, Lypynsky remains optimistic about Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.

In Chornobaivka, 10 kilometers west of Kherson, two 23-year-olds, Volodymyr Prylutskyi and Denys Duchenko, were shot dead by Russian forces, who occupied the village since late February. The Russian military's presence led to terrorizing civilians, with at least 18 killed and 28 wounded during the eight-month occupation. Despite repeated Ukrainian attacks on Russian equipment at the Kherson International Airport, the village suffered significant damage and humanitarian crises persist, with residents lacking power, water, heating, and facing a disorganized distribution of aid.

In Israel, the military operation in Gaza has caused over 18,000 deaths and significant political division. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism for his handling of the situation, with polls indicating a majority of Israelis hold him responsible for the attacks on October 7 and demand his resignation. Netanyahu's support largely comes from religious groups, while secular Israelis are increasingly dissatisfied. Sociologist Nitzan Perelman suggests that Netanyahu's political future is uncertain, with potential shifts in the political landscape if he steps down. The religious electorate's support for Netanyahu is strong, but the secular community's protests, such as the march for Israeli hostages, highlight the deep societal divide.

Officials in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine are conducting a campaign of 'patriotic education' aimed at children, involving military training and indoctrination. Thousands of children in the Donbas and Crimea are subjected to military-themed education and activities, often supported by Russian state programs. Human rights organizations have documented numerous violations of international law, including the recruitment of child soldiers and the use of children in armed formations. The article highlights the challenges Ukraine faces in protecting children's rights in these regions and the need for future reintegration efforts.

Russia is militarizing children in the Donbas and Crimea through education, camps, and military-patriotic clubs, violating international laws. Human rights organizations are gathering evidence to hold Russia accountable. The militarization includes training in military skills and indoctrination with anti-Ukrainian sentiments. The article highlights the challenges Ukraine faces in protecting children's rights in occupied territories and the need for future reintegration strategies.

Friday nights on Lakeshore Public Media will feature live high school football coverage from 6-10 p.m. starting August 23, hosted by Ben Kolodzinski and Wayne Snetanoff on 89.1FM. The program will include scores, interviews, and highlights, focusing on teams from Northwest Indiana.