Conditional Universalism: A new op-ed argues the West’s “universality” of democracy and international law collapses into “conditional universalism,” where enforcement shifts by geography, alliances, race, and convenience. Culture & Diplomacy: Switzerland is funding the restoration of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra via UNESCO after a June attack, underscoring how heritage protection stays tied to wartime identity. Arts Abroad: Huangmei Opera brings courage and warmth to Edinburgh’s Fringe, with Han Zaifen’s troupe staging “The Lady Consort Prince” as Chinese tradition travels. Cinema as Dialogue: Nepal’s Kathmandu hosts a new Licchavi Cinema Festival linking Tarkovsky, Kapadia, and regional Asian films in a cross-border cultural conversation. Human Stories: A Russian asylum-seeker in California is released from ICE detention after nearly a month, reuniting with her daughter. War’s Human Cost: Drone and missile strikes across Russia and Ukraine kill at least 19 and hit civilian and industrial sites, including a Kyiv book market. Diaspora Building: Ukrainian community leaders meet in Ankara to plan cultural and humanitarian initiatives through the “A Two Way Journey” project. Health & Community: Maimonides opens a new women-and-kids care hub in Brooklyn, designed for one-stop access and multilingual, culturally sensitive services.