Crimea Fuel Pressure: Ukraine says it struck eight Russian “shadow fleet” tankers in the Sea of Azov, aiming to disrupt gasoline deliveries to the occupied peninsula and worsen shortages. Diplomacy & Deals: President Tokayev spoke by phone with U.S. President Trump, highlighting progress on cooperation from a 2025 visit and discussing investment, including a planned $1.1bn tungsten project. Aviation Connectivity: Cathay Pacific plans cargo flights to Astana from Aug. 1 and passenger service between Hong Kong and Almaty from Jan. 2027, boosting trade and tourism links. Politics & Reform: Kazakhstan’s new Constitution is framed as a start of systemic transformation, while the Adilet Party congress and Qurultay candidate approvals signal political momentum. Border Fuel Crackdown: Kazakhstan continues tightening rules and checkpoints to curb illicit fuel exports to Russia. Weather Watch: Forecasts warn of heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and extreme heat across multiple regions. Culture & Science: Almaty Museum of Arts opens Bill Viola’s major video-art exhibition, while DNA research confirms the Golden Man was genetically male and sheds light on Saka elite lineage. Sports: Kazakhstan’s national hockey teams are set to play in Oman’s Asian Women’s Hockey Federation Cup; and Cathay Pacific’s new routes come as Kazakhstan prepares for more international events.