Up First from NPR – July 14, 2025

NPR's Up First provides the essential news to kickstart your day. In this episode, hosts Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin, and A Martinez delve into three major stories: the imposition of new U.S. tariffs on the European Union and Mexico, the United States' plans to supply additional weapons to Ukraine, and the devastating flood in central Texas.

1. U.S. Tariffs on the EU and Mexico: European Response and Business Implications

The episode opens with a discussion on President Trump's recent decision to impose higher tariffs on major trading partners, notably the European Union (EU) and Mexico. This move has stirred significant tension in international trade relations and has substantial implications for businesses reliant on cross-border transactions.

Impact on Businesses: Sarah McCammon introduces the topic by highlighting the concerns of European exporters facing potential tariff increases. A French winemaker, Pierre Van Song Girardin, expresses his apprehension:

"I have some talks with my distributors, and if the tariffs go above 20%, they just can't buy. I think by being protectionist and nationalist, you won't really put the US Wines higher." ([05:36])

Frank Morris elaborates on the looming threat to exporters:

"He says it'll just keep people from having the products they want and upend trade." ([06:16])

European Negotiators’ Response: NPR’s Eleanor Beardsley, reporting from Paris, provides insight into the EU's reaction. She explains that the European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has opted to suspend retaliatory tariffs in hopes of negotiating a favorable trade deal by the end of the month:

"We have always been very clear that we prefer a negotiated solution." ([04:21])

However, not all EU leaders share the same conciliatory approach. French President Emmanuel Macron takes a firmer stance, warning of the potential for a full-scale trade war:

"Europe is not only threatened by the war in Ukraine, but...there is a threat to its economic model." ([04:47])

The tension underscores the fragile nature of U.S.-EU trade relations, with significant economic repercussions poised should the tariffs escalate as proposed.

2. U.S. and NATO’s Weapon Supply to Ukraine: Moscow’s Perspective

The podcast shifts focus to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly the United States' commitment to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities through NATO. President Trump is set to announce significant support, including the deployment of Patriot missile systems.

President Trump's Announcement: Charles Mainz, NPR's Russia correspondent based in Moscow, provides an overview of Trump's planned announcement:

"He says he's cut a deal by which NATO will purchase American weapons for Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems, to help Ukraine defend itself from what's really become nearly nightly onslaughts of Russian drone and missile attacks." ([07:03])

Russian Reaction: Mainz discusses the Kremlin's cautious stance amidst these developments. Russia appears to be evaluating whether the U.S. will introduce more offensive weapons or new sanctions alongside the arms supply:

"The Kremlin is taking a wait and see approach...they're also curious to see whether Trump includes new sanctions in his announcement today." ([08:34])

Furthermore, Mainz highlights internal challenges within the Trump administration, noting that Trump's fluctuating opinions towards Russia make the Kremlin wary:

"Russia sees various groups around Trump trying to influence his decisions, and he's often influenced by whoever has his ear last." ([08:25])

Escalation of Conflict: The discussion also touches upon the intensifying conflict in Ukraine, with increased Russian attacks compelling stronger support for Ukrainian defenses:

"It seems the war is ramping up, not down. Maybe this was always naive for Trump to think that he could negotiate a peace quickly..." ([09:31])

Mainz concludes that Trump's strategy, which initially leaned towards leveraging personal relations with Putin, has not yielded the desired diplomatic breakthroughs, leading to a heightened state of military engagement.

3. Central Texas Flood Update: Aftermath and Community Resilience

Shifting to domestic news, the episode covers the aftermath of the catastrophic flood in Kerr County, Texas, which occurred on July 4th. The flooding led to over 132 fatalities and more than 100 people missing, marking one of the most tragic natural disasters in recent U.S. history.

Extent of the Disaster: Frank Morris reports from Central Texas, detailing the severe weather conditions:

"It rained 10 inches of rain on parts of the Texas hill country...the Guadalupe river flooded so catastrophically on July 4th." ([10:07])

Community Impact and Recovery Efforts: The flood’s impact on local infrastructure is profound, particularly concerning the water supply:

"The flood dumped all kinds of stuff into [Nimitz Lake], including sewage and gasoline from RVs that went down the river." ([11:54])

Local authorities are grappling with the extensive cleanup required to restore safe drinking water and rebuild affected areas. Kerr County Commissioner’s Court is actively addressing these challenges, including the imminent need to dredge the polluted Guadalupe River.

Human Toll and Emotional Aftermath: Frank Morris offers a poignant glimpse into the human suffering caused by the flood:

"Most people in town know someone who died. All the bodies of the flooding victims have gone to Grimes Funeral Chapel... over 100 bodies, including at least 36 children, all of them died violently." ([12:30])

The emotional strain on the community is palpable, with residents grappling with loss and the daunting task of recovery. Frank emphasizes the resilience of the community and the relentless efforts of first responders and local officials in the wake of such devastation.

Up First continues to provide comprehensive coverage of these critical issues, ensuring listeners are well-informed about both global and local events shaping our world.