NPR News: August 7, 2025, 2 PM EDT
On today’s episode of NPR News Now, host Windsor Johnston covers a spectrum of pressing issues, from international trade policies and geopolitical developments to breakthroughs in medical research and environmental conservation. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed.
1. President Trump's New Tariffs: Economic Implications
[00:33] Windsor Johnston opens the episode by reporting on President Trump's implementation of sweeping tariffs affecting nearly 70 countries. NPR's Rafael Nam delves deeper into the economic ramifications:
Rafael Nam explains, "The widespread tariffs could raise over $2 billion for the US over the next decade or so. That could help reduce the country's deficits" (00:52). However, he cautions about potential downsides, noting, "Economists are concerned about the potential effects of tariffs on the US Economy. Companies will likely have to pass at least some of the costs to consumers, meaning Americans will be paying higher prices" (00:58). Additionally, Nam highlights labor market concerns: "The labor market could also weaken since businesses could grow more cautious about adding workers" (01:10). Despite these concerns, President Trump remains optimistic, believing tariffs will ultimately benefit the US, though their full impact may take months or years to materialize (01:23).
2. Potential Trump-Putin Talks: A Diplomatic Milestone
Transitioning to international relations, [01:38] Windsor Johnston updates listeners on the Kremlin’s statement regarding a possible meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. NPR's Charles Maynes provides further insights:
Charles Maynes reports, "According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, the Trump-Putin meeting could take place as soon as next week, with the location venue agreed upon, but to be announced at a later date" (01:51). The meeting initiative was proposed by White House envoy Steve Witkoff during discussions focused on ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. Maynes adds, "Wyckoff also suggested three-way talks could include Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, but they indicated Moscow had not endorsed the idea" (02:10). The announcement positively impacted Russian markets and the ruble, occurring just before Trump’s imposed deadline for Russia to cease its actions in Ukraine or face new sanctions and tariffs (02:25).
3. Eli Lilly’s Obesity Drug Faces Market Challenges
[02:33] Shifting to healthcare, Windsor Johnston introduces the topic of a new obesity medication from Eli Lilly. Cindy Lupkin provides a comprehensive overview:
Cindy Lupkin details the clinical trial results, stating, "Patients taking the highest dose lost an average of 27 pounds, or 12% of their body weight" (02:50). Despite these promising outcomes, the results fell short of Wall Street's expectations, leading to a decline in Eli Lilly’s stock during midday trading (02:45). Lupkin also mentions side effects associated with the drug, including nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. Looking ahead, Eli Lilly plans to submit the once-daily pill, Figlipron, to the Food and Drug Administration for review by the end of the year (03:10).
4. Stock Market Trends and Economic Indicators
[03:21] Windsor Johnston provides a brief update on the stock market, noting that stocks are trading lower with the Dow down 296 points and the Nasdaq down two (03:21). This downturn is intertwined with the economic news surrounding tariffs and corporate performances.
5. Shooting of Pennsylvania State Troopers
In a concerning domestic incident, Johnston reports that two Pennsylvania state troopers were shot in Susquehanna County near the village of Thompson, approximately 40 miles north of Scranton (03:21). Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed the tragedy, although the condition of the officers remains unknown at this time.
6. Breakthrough in Marine Biology: Combating Sea Star Wasting Syndrome
[04:00] Environmental scientist Lauren Sommer shares a significant advancement in marine biology:
Lauren Sommer explains, "Scientists have figured out a mysterious disease that's been harming West Coast Marine Life" (04:00). The disease, known as sea star wasting syndrome, causes sea stars to dissolve and perish, disrupting marine ecosystems. For over a decade, this syndrome has led to a decline in sea star populations, resulting in an overabundance of sea urchins that consume kelp, thereby threatening Pacific kelp forests. The recent identification of the causative bacteria, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, offers hope for breeding resistant sea stars and restoring their populations in the wild (04:20).
7. United Airlines Faces Nationwide Delays Due to System Failure
Returning to transportation news, Windsor Johnston reports on significant disruptions in air travel:
United Airlines has announced that residual delays may extend into the weekend following a nationwide ground stop caused by a technology failure (04:32). The incident affected major hubs in cities such as Houston, Chicago, and Newark, where the system responsible for weight and balance calculations and flight tracking encountered glitches, resulting in hundreds of cancellations and delays (04:40). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has clarified that the failure was not due to a cyberattack (05:05). Concurrently, Wall Street continues to experience declines, with the Dow down 295 points and the S&P 500 down 18 points (05:00).
This comprehensive overview encapsulates the diverse range of topics covered in today’s NPR News Now episode, providing listeners with essential updates and in-depth analysis on both national and international fronts.