Record-breaking pumpkin weighs in at 817 kg in Russia

MOSCOW: An impressive feat in the realm of gardening emerged from Russia where an amateur cultivator grow a pumpkin that tipped the scale at a whopping 817 kilograms (kg)!

The record-breaking pumpkin eclipsed the former record of 717 kg, showcasing the Russian’s exceptional talent and commitment to the craft.

Read more: MTV Awards 2024: Taylor Swift leads the nominations

The 817-kg giant pumpkin was displayed to bedazzled audiences at a regional agricultural event in Russia, capturing interest of both, the locals and media.

Traditionally grounded more in small US towns, the popularity of record-breaking vegetables and fruits competitions has risen across the world in recent years. The latest craze, it seems, has gripped Russia.

Prisoner swap occurs between Russia and Ukraine

Meanwhile, in more sobering news, a hug prisoner swap took place on Saturday. As the Russo-Ukraine War rages on, in latest prisoner exchange, 206 people were released.

Read more: How to properly store bananas?

According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the swap occurred in the Kursk area, with 103 Russian detainees freed in return for an equal number of Ukrainian prisoners, including 21 military officers.

Romania faces severe flooding

Meanwhile, across the border in Romania, intense rainfall resulted in severe flooding.

This has left thousands of residents without electricity, with the impact felt not only in Romania but also in Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Austria and southern Germany.

Read more: China raises retirement age as population ages

Emergency services were mobilised to evaluate the extent of the damage and provide necessary support to affected people.

Local weather authorities warn of more rainfall in the region, with the crisis highlighting the impact of climate change even impacting the global north now,