NPR News Now: August 10, 2025 – Detailed Summary

On the August 10, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, host Jeanine Herbst delivers a comprehensive roundup of global and national news, covering pivotal developments from European support for Ukraine to significant events in Washington D.C., a tragic incident at the CDC, major legal proceedings against a terrorist group leader, and the latest trends in the movie industry. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed, enriched with notable quotes and structured for clarity.

1. European Support for Ukraine & US-Russia Summit

[00:20 - 01:26]

European leaders are consolidating their support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Jeanine Herbst reports on the European Union's strategic maneuvers, highlighting the plan to convene an extraordinary meeting of EU foreign ministers scheduled for the following day.

Key Points:

• European Union's Unified Stance: Leaders from Britain, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and the European Commission issued a joint statement commending President Trump's efforts to halt the violence in Ukraine and end Russia's "war of aggression."
• Concerns Over US Policies: Despite initial support, European leaders expressed reservations about the U.S.-led process, particularly in light of President Trump's indications that he might loosen sanctions on Moscow. They affirmed their commitment to continued military and financial assistance to Ukraine while maintaining stringent sanctions against Russia.
• Territorial Integrity: The coalition underscored the principle that international borders should remain unchanged by force. This stance directly counters President Trump's suggestion of a territorial swap between Russia and Ukraine, with European leaders firmly stating, "no deal can be made without Ukraine" ([00:42]).

Conclusion: The European Union remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, ensuring that any diplomatic efforts with Russia do not compromise Ukraine's sovereignty.

2. Crime in Washington D.C.: Trump's Threat vs. Mayor's Defense

[01:26 - 02:04]

President Trump has escalated his rhetoric regarding rising crime rates in Washington D.C., threatening to deploy federal troops to regain control of the nation's capital. In response, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser staunchly defended the local administration's efforts to manage and reduce crime.

Key Points:

• Trump's Statement: The President declared that crime in D.C. is "out of control," vowing to send in federal forces to address homelessness and criminal activity.
• Mayor Bowser's Response: Mayor Bowser countered these claims by pointing to significant crime reduction efforts. Speaking to MSNBC, she stated, "It is true that we had a terrible spike in crime in 2023, but this is not 2023, this is 2025. And we've done that by working with the community, working with the police, working with our prosecutors and in fact, working with the federal government" ([01:46]). She further highlighted a 26% decrease in crime compared to the previous year, attributing this success to collaborative efforts.

Conclusion: While President Trump expresses concern over crime in D.C., local leadership emphasizes substantial progress and effective community-based strategies in reducing criminal activities.

3. CDC Shooting and Its Aftermath

[02:04 - 03:15]

A harrowing incident at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters has raised alarms about security and the well-being of federal employees. Melissa Fatou from WABE provides an in-depth report on the event and its repercussions.

Key Points:

• The Incident: Patrick Joseph White opened fire at the CDC headquarters near Emory University, triggering a campus-wide alert for people to "run, hide, fight." The attack resulted in the deaths of one police officer and the gunman, with no civilian casualties.
• Impact on CDC Facilities: At least four CDC buildings sustained damage from the gunfire.
• Union's Response: The American Federation for Government Employees (AFGE) local chapter expressed concern for staff safety, advocating for measures such as flexible leave policies, delayed returns to offices with visible damage, and enhanced perimeter security. The union also called on federal leadership to denounce vaccine disinformation, highlighting its threat to scientists ([02:36]).
• Security Measures: A CDC source revealed that enhanced security had been in place for weeks prior to the shooting, indicating ongoing concerns about potential threats.

Conclusion: The CDC shooting underscores the necessity for robust security protocols and support systems to protect federal employees and maintain trust in vital public health institutions.

4. Terrorogram Collective Leader Pleads Guilty

[03:15 - 04:21]

In a significant legal development, a Northern California woman has pleaded guilty to charges linked to her leadership role in the Terrorogram Collective, a recognized transnational terrorist organization.

Key Points:

• Defendant's Admission: Dallas Humber, 35, a prominent figure in the Terrorogram Collective, admitted to multiple charges, including soliciting the murder of federal officials, conspiring to provide material support to terrorists, and soliciting hate crimes.
• Scope of Activities: Humber confessed to offering guidance and support to followers for executing attacks and murders within the United States, as well as inciting international violence, such as the tragic shooting of 11 individuals at schools in Brazil ([03:37]).
• Terrorogram Collective's Profile: The group is identified by the U.S. Department of State as a terrorist organization, driven by a violent white supremacist ideology.
• Legal Proceedings: Humber's sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 5th, which could result in up to 30 years in prison.

Conclusion: The guilty plea by Dallas Humber marks a critical step in dismantling the Terrorogram Collective's operations and addressing domestic and international threats posed by such extremist groups.

5. Movie Box Office Highlights

[04:21 - 04:59]

The weekend box office saw impressive performances from new releases, with "Weapons" leading the charts followed by Disney's sequel to "Freaky Friday."

Key Points:

• "Weapons" Dominates: The horror film "Weapons" secured the top spot with an estimated $42 million in ticket sales over the weekend, accumulating nearly $70 million globally. The film's plot centers on the unsettling events in the small town of Maybrook, where 17 teenagers leave their homes mysteriously at 2:17 AM, leaving parents bewildered.
• "Freaky Friday" Sequel: Disney's much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 classic "Freaky Friday" landed in second place, grossing $29 million. The film features returning stars Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, this time portraying a mother-daughter duo who undergo a body-swap with Lohan's teen daughter, leading to comedic and chaotic situations.

Conclusion: The latest releases have resonated well with audiences, particularly "Weapons," which has achieved significant box office success, while Disney continues to capitalize on beloved franchises with engaging sequels.

Final Note: This episode of NPR News Now provided listeners with critical updates on international relations, domestic policy debates, security incidents, legal actions against extremist groups, and entertainment news, all delivered with clarity and authoritative reporting.