Helicopter crash in Brazil, 4 people killed
Brazilian fire officials said 4 people were killed in a helicopter crash on August 8 (local time) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, according to AFP. The country's media reported that 3 of the victims were Colombian tourists.
The helicopter crashed in Tijuca National Park, a forest located on a mountainside with extremely dense vegetation.
Firefighters confirmed that the pilot and 3 women were "dead in the fire" and released images showing the wreckage of the plane smoking on a steep, dangerous hillside.
The plane crashed near Vista Chinesa - a Chinese pagoda simulation famous for its overhead viewing position, allowing panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro from the heart of the forest.
Ukraine announces monthly missile transfer agreement with US
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country has reached an agreement with the US on the monthly transfer of interceptor missiles for the Patriot air defense system, although the supply is still not enough to meet demand, Xinhua reported.
Speaking to reporters in Belgrade, Mr. Zelensky confirmed that Washington will provide interceptor missiles to Ukraine periodically every month. However, he emphasized that this number is still not enough to meet the country's air defense needs.
Mr. Zelensky noted that the number of interceptor missiles that Ukraine is expected to receive in 2026 will be lower than in 2025, but did not disclose specific figures.
Previously, at a press conference with NATO leaders in Kiev, Mr. Zelensky said that the actual transfer of interceptor missiles from allies has decreased, mainly due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
21 people killed in bus collision in western Niger
The accident between two passenger cars occurred while authorities were promoting traffic safety awareness campaigns.
At least 21 people were killed and 37 others injured in a collision between two passenger buses on August 7 (local time) in western Niger, Niger news agency (ANP) reported on August 8, local time.
According to Xinhua, the accident occurred on the Maradi - Madaoua route, about 55 km from Madaoua city. The news agency said that the temporary death toll was 21, while 37 injured people are being treated, and also said that 1 of the 2 buses carrying soldiers.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident. The incident occurred as Niger authorities are stepping up campaigns to raise awareness about traffic safety, amid frequent road accidents in the country.
