NPR News Now: July 15, 2025, 12 PM EDT

Hosted by Lakshmi Singh, this episode of NPR News Now provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in international relations, U.S. domestic policies, legal battles, and noteworthy human interest stories.

1. U.S.-Russia Tensions Escalate Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine

Timestamp: [00:18]

NPR host Lakshmi Singh reports that Russia remains undeterred by the United States' threats of economic sanctions and military support to Ukraine. The Russian military continues its aggressive actions in Ukraine, with President Donald Trump expressing frustration over Russia's unwillingness to negotiate a ceasefire.

President Donald Trump voiced his disappointment in comments at [00:38], stating:

“I'm not done with him, but I'm disappointed in him. So we had a deal done four times and then you go home and you see he just attacked a nursing home or something in Kiev. I said, what the hell was that all about?”

Additionally, in an exclusive phone interview with the BBC, President Trump criticized NATO, remarking that the military alliance is "no longer obsolete now that they are 'paying their own bills,'" highlighting his administration's stance on defense spending by allied nations.

2. Supreme Court Upholds Trump Administration's Move to Dismantle the Department of Education

Timestamp: [00:51 - 01:19]

Lakshmi Singh transitions to a pivotal Supreme Court decision concerning the Trump administration's efforts to restructure the U.S. Department of Education. Cory Turner of NPR elaborates on the ruling:

“The court reversed a lower court order that had blocked the administration from firing some 1,400 department workers. Those layoffs were part of President Trump's stated goal of closing the Education Department.” [01:19]

The conservative majority on the Supreme Court delivered the decision without detailed explanations. In stark contrast, Justice Sonia Sotomayor delivered a "blistering dissent," labeling the ruling as "indefensible." Meanwhile, President Trump hailed the decision as a significant victory for "parents and students," emphasizing his administration's intent to shift control of educational functions back to the states.

3. Legal Challenges to Education Funding Reallocation and Tribute to Legendary Marathon Runner Vajra Singh

Timestamp: [01:19 - 02:01]

Following the Supreme Court's decision, Singh highlights ongoing legal battles where approximately two dozen states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration. These states seek the release of billions in frozen education funds, arguing against the dismantling efforts.

In a heartwarming segment, Singh pays tribute to Vajra Singh, revered as the world's oldest marathon runner, who recently passed away at the age of 114 due to injuries from a hit-and-run incident. Singh's remarkable life story includes:

• Running Milestones: At 89, Singh completed his first marathon in London, becoming the first centenarian to finish a marathon.
• Olympic Participation: A year later, he became the oldest torchbearer during the 2012 London Olympics.
• Advocacy and Longevity: Featured in documentaries, Singh attributed his long life to simple habits like "Don't eat too much and sleep better." He used his platform to promote various charities, inspiring countless individuals worldwide.

4. Federal Appeals Court Temporarily Blocks Trump's Attempt to Remove Protections for Afghans in the U.S.

Timestamp: [02:01 - 03:36]

In immigration news, Lakshmi Singh reports on the legal tug-of-war surrounding President Trump's efforts to revoke protections for nearly 12,000 Afghans residing in the United States. Ryland Barton provides detailed coverage:

“A lower court didn't grant a request to keep protections in place while the lawsuit plays out, but last night, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals did. For a week, the court didn't explain its decision, but said protections will remain in place until next Monday.” [03:36]

The Trump administration contends that the circumstances in Afghanistan have improved, negating the need for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Conversely, many Afghans who assisted the U.S. during the war fear persecution if forced to return. The case underscores the ongoing debate over immigration policies and humanitarian protections.

5. Impact of Trump’s Tariffs Begins to Manifest in Rising Inflation Rates

Timestamp: [03:36 - 04:17]

Lakshmi Singh shifts focus to economic developments, noting that President Trump's implementation of tariffs is starting to influence inflation rates, a move economists had previously predicted. Consumer prices saw a year-over-year increase of 2.7% in June, up from 2.4% in May, with a monthly rise of 0.3% compared to 0.1% in May.

Despite facing international pushback, President Trump maintains his tariff strategy, threatening to impose additional tariffs on August 1st against major trading partners like the European Union. Notably, a 10% tariff remains in place on nearly all U.S. imports, signaling the administration's continued commitment to reshaping trade relationships.

This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates critical global and domestic issues, providing listeners with in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives on the evolving political and economic landscape.