NPR News Now: August 3, 2025, 3 PM EDT
Host: Nora Rahm
Producer: NPR
Release Date: August 3, 2025
1. Trump Administration Implements New Tariffs Amid Market Turmoil
Timestamp: [00:18]
Nora Rahm opens the episode with breaking news on the Trump administration's decision to enforce new tariffs on dozens of countries. These tariffs, ranging from 10% to 40%, target nations that have yet to secure a trade agreement with the United States. The announcement has led to a significant drop in stock prices, reflecting investor concerns over the potential impact on international trade relations.
Quote:
Kevin Hassett, Top White House Economic Adviser: “I would rule it out because these are the final deals.” [00:35]
Luke Garrett reports that these tariffs are a continuation of the administration's broader trade strategy, following two previous delays. Hassett conveyed confidence that the tariffs would remain in place despite recent stock market declines. He emphasized that countries like South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Japan have negotiated their own tariff rates, suggesting a stable implementation moving forward.
2. escalating US-Russia Tensions Over Ukraine Conflict
Timestamp: [01:15]
In a significant development, White House envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to arrive in Moscow to engage in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The core demand from President Trump is for Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine by the week's end, under threat of additional economic penalties.
Quote:
Charles Maness, NPR Reporter: “Putin has never responded directly to Trump's threats, but in comments before the press on Friday obliquely noted that inflated expectations inevitably led to disappointments.” [01:32]
Charles Maness elaborates on the complexities of the US-Russia negotiations. Despite extensive US-led peace efforts, Russia continues its military campaigns in Ukraine. Trump appears skeptical about the efficacy of secondary sanctions and tariffs aimed at nations importing Russian energy, doubting they will alter Moscow's strategic decisions. Meanwhile, Putin remains defiant, asserting that Russian forces maintain momentum and that previous sanctions have rendered the Russian economy resilient against ongoing US pressures.
3. Ongoing Conflict: Ukrainian and Russian Airstrikes; Sochi Incident
Timestamp: [02:13]
Nora Rahm updates listeners on the continued hostilities between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting recent long-distance airstrikes exchanged overnight. Notably, a Ukrainian drone attack targeted a large fuel storage facility in Sochi, a major city on Russia's Black Sea coast, resulting in a massive fire.
4. Wildfires in Western Canada Affect Air Quality Across North America
Timestamp: [02:34]
Dan Karpenschuk reports on the severe wildfires sweeping through western Canada, with smoke and haze extending from British Columbia to western Quebec. The environmental impact has transcended national borders, prompting air quality alerts in several US Midwest states, including Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois.
Health Advisory: Environment Canada has issued warnings about extremely high levels of air pollution, citing risks such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, chest pain, and severe coughing. Vulnerable populations, including infants, children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are advised to take precautions.
5. Climate Volatility in Australia and Tragic Incident in Montana
Timestamp: [03:13]
Nora Rahm transitions to international news, reporting that several towns in eastern Australia are grappling with the aftermath of unprecedented snowfall, with meteorologists recording up to 16 inches falling in some areas. Experts attribute this unusual weather pattern to the increasing volatility caused by climate change.
In the United States, a manhunt continues in western Montana as authorities search for the suspect responsible for a deadly shooting at a bar in Anaconda. The incident resulted in four fatalities. The targeted establishment, known as the TAPP, prides itself on being a safe space for patrons to socialize. However, last month's data breach compromised user privacy by exposing direct messages and state ID pictures.
6. Data Breach at Dating App T Sparks Legal and Privacy Concerns
Timestamp: [04:00]
Alana Wise provides an in-depth look at the recent security breach suffered by the dating app T, which enables users to conduct background checks and communicate anonymously about potential romantic interests. The breach resulted in user personal information being disseminated across social media platforms. Additionally, online trolls exploited metadata from photos to create maps of T subscribers' locations.
Legal Implications: The company is now facing two class-action lawsuits filed in California. Experts note that while apps like T play a crucial role in protecting users from abusive behaviors by facilitating discreet information sharing, this incident underscores the vulnerabilities inherent in digital privacy systems.
7. Japanese Dominance in Women's Golf Continues with British Open Victory
Timestamp: [04:43]
In sports news, Miyamashita of Japan clinched her first major title by winning the British Open in women's golf. This victory marks the fourth major win by Japanese players in the last nine majors, highlighting Japan's growing prominence and success in the international women's golf scene.
NPR News Now provides concise and up-to-date news coverage, ensuring listeners stay informed on the latest national and international events.