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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call to reaffirm their strategic partnership amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin praised the involvement of North Korean troops in assisting Russian forces to repel a Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. The leaders discussed advancing ties in various sectors under their strategic partnership agreement signed last year. Kim expressed full support for Russia’s future measures and emphasized Pyongyang’s commitment to the partnership. The call also touched upon Putin’s upcoming talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, scheduled to take place in Alaska, although North Korea’s…

UK border authorities have detained the first group of migrants illegally crossing the English Channel under a new pilot scheme. This initiative, announced last month, stipulates that France will accept returned migrants in exchange for the UK taking in an equal number of asylum seekers with family ties to Britain. The scheme is part of broader efforts to manage small boat crossings and address illegal immigration.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Russia’s proposal to include the remaining parts of Donetsk region in a ceasefire agreement. He emphasized that ceding these territories would serve as a springboard for future Russian aggression and compromise Ukraine’s security. Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls, stating that such actions would be unconstitutional. He also highlighted recent Russian advances in Donetsk, including sabotage groups penetrating Ukrainian lines by about six miles, and warned of new Russian offensives with significant troop concentrations. Zelenskyy called for firm security guarantees and the release of all prisoners of war and…

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated a change in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, now aiming to secure the release of all remaining hostages in a single comprehensive deal rather than in phases. This potential agreement, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, would include a lasting ceasefire and Israeli military withdrawal. A Hamas delegation’s arrival in Cairo suggests continued diplomatic efforts. Israel, facing international and internal criticism, threatens to expand its offensive unless a deal is reached. Netanyahu confirmed Israel’s goal remains full hostage release and Hamas’ surrender, with continued Israeli security control over Gaza.

Polish authorities have charged a Ukrainian woman in connection with a parcel bomb scheme believed to be part of a broader sabotage effort linked to Russia. The intercepted package contained explosive materials and was allegedly intended to damage infrastructure. Security experts warn that such incidents highlight the growing threat of hybrid warfare targeting civilian logistics across Europe.

Zenshuji Soto Mission – 67th Annual Obon Carnival Dates & Time: Saturday, July 26 & Sunday, July 27, 2025 • 12 p.m.–7 p.m.Location: Zenshuji Soto Mission, 123 S. Hewitt St., Little Tokyo, Los Angeles Delight in a family-friendly celebration honoring heritage and community:

In a moving ceremony attended by around 120 people, the American Society of Hiroshima–Nagasaki A-Bomb Survivors (ASA) and ministers from the Los Angeles Buddhist Temple Federation conducted a heartfelt memorial service for atomic bombing victims. The ritual included collective incense offerings and Goeika chanting—a dignified tribute to lives lost and a call for peace. The flame of remembrance, brought from Hiroshima’s Peace Flame and housed at the temple since 1989, was integral to the ceremony’s symbolism. Hosted at the Koyasan Beikoku Betsuin temple in Little Tokyo, the event reaffirmed the community’s commitment to preserving legacy and fostering peace. The Rotary…

This week’s edition of Weekly Cultural News features a heartfelt reflection on the Azuma Kotobuki Kai dance school’s dedication to preserving the rich heritage and artistry of Azuma Sumako II. The issue also highlights several commemorative programs, including Madame Butterfly, Ave Maria, Tsuru no Ongaeshi, Odori, and Arashi no Taiko/Ashura, all rooted in the legacy and tradition of Azuma-Ryū, which traces its origins to the mid-Edo period.In addition, the issue marks the 50th anniversary of the Aikido Center of Los Angeles—with special recognition of its founder, Kensho Furuya Sensei—and showcases 11 Japanese restaurants in Little Tokyo participating in an Anime…

2025 GVJCI Matsuri Fundraiser Zenshuji Temple 67th Annual Obon Carnival

Celebrate the joyful crowning of Kimi Look as the 2025 Nisei Week Queen, sponsored by the Gardena Evening Optimist Club. At just 25, the Torrance native was selected from seven distinguished candidates during an elegant coronation held on August 9 at the Aratani Theatre in Little Tokyo. Kimi, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Boston, advocates for the Go For Broke National Education Center as her platform. Her interests are delightfully rooted in nostalgia—she loves baking pastries inspired by her grandmother’s “itadakimasu” cookbook, plays volleyball, surfs, and indulges in anime, origami, and art.…