NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of Episode Released on July 28, 2025

Host: Jeanine Herbst

1. European Union's New Trade Agreement with the United States

Timestamp: 00:19 - 01:09

Jeanine Herbst reports from Washington on the European Union's recent trade agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite the agreement imposing a 15% tariff on EU exports to the U.S., the EU officials are framing it as a positive outcome.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated at 00:33, "I didn't succeed in getting President Trump to entirely drop the plan to add import duties on European products, but only to cut his original threat in half."

Terry Schultz of NPR adds, "15% is not to be underestimated, but it is the best we could get."

Von der Leyen further highlighted that certain products would enjoy zero tariffs, including aircraft, some agricultural goods, and critical raw materials. Additionally, she emphasized the EU's strategy to diversify energy sources by replacing Russian gas and oil with significant purchases of U.S. LNG, oil, and nuclear fuels. She concluded at 01:09, "While tariffs will still be a challenge for some, at least now the destabilizing uncertainty is over."

2. Federal Transfer of Public Land to U.S. Military Along the Border

Timestamp: 01:18 - 02:17

Jeanine Herbst covers the Trump administration's move to designate a 170-mile stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border in New Mexico as a military zone. Reported by Alicia Resnick from station KJZZ, the federal government is expanding national defense areas across Texas, New Mexico, and soon Arizona.

Miles Traphagen from the Wildlands Network expressed concerns at 01:57, "I'd be very surprised if it stays within the Roosevelt Reservation because the federal government already had access to that and a lot of this land in western Arizona already interfaces with DoD controlled lands."

Residents entering these national defense areas risk federal charges for trespassing on military property. The Department of the Interior plans to include parts of the Roosevelt Reservation, a 60-foot-wide strip along the border.

3. Escalation of Conflict Between Thailand and Cambodia

Timestamp: 02:17 - 03:12

Tensions escalate as Thailand and Cambodia exchange fire along their disputed border for the fourth consecutive day. Michael Sullivan reports from Chiang Rai, Thailand, detailing accusations from both sides. Cambodia alleges that Thai forces were preparing to launch attacks, whereas Thailand claims to be responding to Cambodian aggressions.

Cambodia's Prime Minister supports President Trump's call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Conversely, Thailand's Acting Prime Minister Puntam Weichaya Cai appreciates the U.S. intervention but prefers bilateral negotiations. At 03:12, Cai announced plans to travel to Malaysia for talks aiming to achieve a ceasefire.

4. Mass Stabbing Attack at Michigan Walmart

Timestamp: 03:12 - 04:45

A tragic incident unfolded in Michigan where a mass stabbing at a Walmart near Travis City injured 11 individuals. Authorities are investigating the motive behind what appears to be a random attack. The suspect, a 42-year-old man, was apprehended with the assistance of bystanders, including an armed individual.

Charges filed include terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. The community remains shaken as law enforcement continues its investigation into the perpetrator's motives and background.

5. Slovenian Cyclist Tadej Pogacar Wins Fourth Tour de France Title

Timestamp: 04:06 - 04:45

Rebecca Rossman reports from Paris on Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar securing his fourth consecutive Tour de France title. The final stage was marked by steep hills, slick cobblestones, and an unexpected downpour, making it a historic and challenging conclusion to the 23-day race.

For the first time in 121 years, cyclists navigated three demanding loops around the steep Butte de Montmartre. Amidst thousands of enthusiastic fans, Pogacar faced stiff competition from Belgian Wout Van Aert, who won the final stage. Nonetheless, Pogacar maintained his lead to clinch the overall victory.

6. U.S. Stock Futures Show Positive Trends

Timestamp: 04:45 - 04:57

Jeanine Herbst provides a brief update on the financial markets, noting that U.S. futures contracts are trading higher. Specifically, Dow futures are up by approximately 0.3%, while Nasdaq futures have increased by 0.5%, indicating a positive outlook as the trading day progresses.

This episode of NPR News Now offers a comprehensive overview of significant international and domestic events, from high-stakes trade negotiations and military developments to violent incidents and sporting triumphs, all delivered with insightful reporting and expert commentary.