NPR News Now: July 27, 2025, 11 AM EDT

Host: Nora Ram
Producer: NPR
Release Date: July 27, 2025

1. President Trump's Meeting with EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen

Timestamp: [00:11]

President Donald Trump paused his golfing weekend in Scotland to engage in crucial talks with the European Commission's chief, Ursula von der Leyen. The meeting, set to begin within the hour at Turnberry, Trump's golf resort, centers on negotiating a U.S.-EU trade deal. This discussion precedes a looming deadline set by Trump for Friday, under which the U.S. may impose a 30% tariff on EU goods.

Lauren Frayer reports from Edinburgh:

"As he left the White House for Scotland, Trump stated that any deal would need to mitigate the proposed 30% tariffs. He expressed skepticism about reaching an agreement, mentioning there are sticking points on 20 different issues. He assessed the chances of a deal at, quote, '50, 50, maybe less than that,' highlighting significant challenges ahead" ([00:34]).

Failure to secure a deal by the deadline could lead the EU to retaliate with tariffs on American imports, escalating the trade tensions between the two economic giants.

2. NASA Faces Significant Workforce Departures

Timestamp: [01:16]

NASA is experiencing a substantial exodus of employees through the Trump administration's Deferred Resignation Program. Chandelyse Duster reports:

"NASA has received 3,000 applications from employees looking to leave the agency in the latest round of the program, adding to over 800 who applied earlier this year. Collectively, this represents nearly 20% of NASA's workforce" ([01:27]).

NASA spokesperson Cheryl Warner emphasized that safety remains a top priority as the agency strives to become more streamlined and efficient. This mass resignation wave follows a letter signed by over 300 current and former NASA employees criticizing proposed budget cuts and organizational changes, challenging interim Administrator Shawn Duffy's leadership.

3. Thailand and Cambodia Convene to End Border Clashes

Timestamp: [02:10]

The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia have scheduled a meeting in Malaysia to address recent hostilities along their disputed border, which have resulted in at least 30 deaths since Thursday. Following President Trump's intervention urging a cessation of fighting, the two nations seek diplomatic resolution.

Michael Sullivan reports from Chiang Rai, Thailand:

"Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed President Trump's call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, whereas Thailand's acting Prime Minister Pumtam Weichaya Cai expressed gratitude for Trump's concern but emphasized the need for a bilateral solution. Thailand is advocating for the withdrawal of troops and long-range weapons from the conflict zone, indicating a more measured response" ([02:33]).

Despite the agreement to meet, artillery exchanges have continued for the fourth consecutive day, underscoring the fragile ceasefire.

4. Israel Implements Daily Pauses in Gaza Operations

Timestamp: [03:04]

In response to escalating international criticism, the Israeli military announced a temporary halt to operations in parts of Gaza. These daily pauses, lasting 10 hours each, are intended to allow United Nations convoys to deliver essential food and medical supplies. Additionally, Israel plans to establish new aid corridors to facilitate ongoing deliveries.

The initiative comes amid severe humanitarian concerns, with the World Food Program reporting that approximately one-third of Gaza's 2 million residents have gone days without food. While Israel denies intentionally starving the population, the situation continues to draw global condemnation.

5. Mass Stabbing Incident in Traverse City, Michigan

Timestamp: [03:57]

A tragic mass stabbing occurred at a Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City, Michigan, where 42-year-old local man attacked 11 individuals with a folding knife near a checkout counter. Quinn Kleinfelder of WDET reports:

"Shoppers managed to subdue the suspect, and others promptly assisted in triaging the victims. Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea stated, 'It appears there were random acts. The victims were not predetermined'" ([04:14]).

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer closely monitored the unfolding situation, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed his dismay over social media, describing the incident as "awful and senseless violence."

6. Conclusion of the Tour de France

Timestamp: [04:38]

Today's stage marks the final leg of the prestigious Tour de France, culminating in Paris. Slovenian cyclist Tadek Bogota has secured a comfortable lead and is poised to claim his fourth Tour de France title. Host Nora Ram provides the latest updates:

"Tadek Bogota of Slovenia holds a comfortable lead and is expected to pick up his fourth Tour de France title, showcasing remarkable endurance and strategy throughout the race" ([04:38]).

The cycling community anticipates a thrilling conclusion to this year's race, celebrating both the sport's athleticism and international camaraderie.

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