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Top Stories Digest

Posted 8/27/25

AP Top Stories Digest

Here are the AP’s top stories and promotable content. All times U.S. Eastern. For up-to-the minute information on AP’s coverage, visit AP Newsroom’s Coverage Plan.

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Top Stories Digest

Posted

AP Top Stories Digest

Here are the AP’s top stories and promotable content. All times U.S. Eastern. For up-to-the minute information on AP’s coverage, visit AP Newsroom’s Coverage Plan.

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NATIONAL

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US--SCHOOL SHOOTING-MINNEAPOLIS

Minneapolis police: shooting at Catholic school has left 3 dead, including shooter, and 17 injured

SUMMARY: A shooting Wednesday at a Minneapolis Catholic school has killed two children as they prayed and injured 17 other people, 14 of them kids. The police chief says the shooter also died in the violence Wednesday at the Annunciation Catholic School. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the shooter approached the side of the church and shot through the windows toward the children sitting in the pews during Mass. The police chief says the children who died were 8 and 10. O’Hara says the shooting suspect is dead and in his early 20s and doesn’t have an extensive known criminal history. Officials are looking into what may have motivated him.

WORDS: 1033 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 1:52 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:0fb27d2c911fe63a9f04791b444f298f&mediaType=text

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US--DEPORTATION ERROR-ABREGO GARCIA

Kilmar Abrego Garcia requests asylum in the US, hoping to prevent his deportation to Uganda

SUMMARY: Lawyers for Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whose case has come to encapsulate much of President Donald Trump’s hard-line immigration agenda, say he wants to seek asylum in the United States. His lawyers told that to a federal judge Wednesday. The 30-year-old Salvadoran national was detained Monday in Baltimore by U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement after leaving a Tennessee jail on Friday. Administration officials have said he’s part of the dangerous MS-13 gang, an allegation Abrego Garcia denies. His lawyers are fighting the deportation efforts in court, arguing he has the right to express fear of persecution and torture in Uganda.

WORDS: 979 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 1:18 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:62f3d781878a3787ae27d6ea42662dc0&mediaType=text

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US-FLORIDA-IMMIGRATION-DETENTION-CENTER

Top Florida official says ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ will likely be empty within days, email shows

SUMMARY: A top Florida official says the controversial state-run immigration detention facility in the Everglades will likely be empty in a matter of days, even as Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration fights a federal judge’s order to shutter the facility dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” by a late October deadline. That’s according to an email exchange shared with The Associated Press. In a message sent to a South Florida rabbi on Aug. 22 in regard to providing chaplaincy services at the facility, Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie said “we are probably going to be down to 0 individuals within a few days.”

WORDS: 696 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 1:16 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:f36fd04c18635eb7938a9ec26a31e92e&mediaType=text

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SCI--SPACEX-STARSHIP

Latest launch of SpaceX’s Starship deploys 8 dummy satellites, then splashes down into Indian Ocean

SUMMARY: SpaceX has launched its latest test of the mega rocket Starship. It included the first-ever deployment of a test payload into space. Starship blasted off from SpaceX’s launch site in Texas on Tuesday evening. The Starship launched eight dummy satellites into space before splashing down as planned in the Indian Ocean. It was the 10th demo test for the world’s biggest and most powerful rocket. It also included the successful return of the craft’s booster, which splashed down in the ocean. SpaceX hopes to use Starship for future moon and Mars missions.

WORDS: 340 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:19 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:488416a6085cc64d8288d0a025602f28&mediaType=text

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US--DEADLY ILLEGAL U-TURN

Trump administration threatens some funding for 3 states for not enforcing trucker English rules

SUMMARY: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says California, Washington and New Mexico could lose millions of dollars of federal funding if they continue failing to enforce English language requirements for truckers. An investigation launched after a deadly Florida crash involving a foreign truck driver who made an illegal U-turn earlier this month found what Duffy called significant failures in the way all three states are enforcing rules that took effect in June after one of President Donald Trump’s executive orders. Truckers are supposed to be disqualified if they can’t demonstrate English proficiency and Duffy said these states have hardly done that. The states didn’t immediately respond to the proposed sanctions that were announced Tuesday morning.

WORDS: 1128 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 10:51 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:ea52495ac7ec4a4e607d16e2946bd4f6&mediaType=text

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US--ACTIVE SHOOTER-FALSE ALARMS

Spate of hoax calls about active shooters stir fear at college campuses around the US

SUMMARY: A rash of hoax calls about active shooters on at least a dozen college campuses around the U.S. has spread fear among students as the school year begins. The hoax calls and false alarms have sent students and teachers scrambling for safety in classrooms and under desks amid urgent text messages urging them to “run, hide, (and) fight.” Yet officers who swarmed the campuses looking for any threat found none. Security experts say campus officials now must find the right balance in keeping students and teachers on guard — but not panicking — in case of any real threats in the future.

WORDS: 1043 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 8:06 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:7fae16fae9025cf421acb6115c30c3d3&mediaType=text

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US--ARIZONA DUST STORM

After fearsome dust storm rips Phoenix area, trees cleaned up and power restored

SUMMARY: Crews are cleaning up downed trees and electricity largely is restored after a powerful dust storm hit the Phoenix area. The storm was what’s known as a haboob. It blackened skies and knocked out electricity for 55,000 customers late Monday afternoon. Drenching rain followed. Flights were halted at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. By Tuesday afternoon, things were mostly back to normal. The weather was warm and clear, with scattered thunderstorms expected to give way to hot and dry weather through the rest of the week.

WORDS: 541 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 7:24 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:ca6e25fe03c724f298e3f1e3a736fdd9&mediaType=text

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US-TRUMP-CHICAGO

Trump’s threat to deploy troops to Chicago sparks fear and defiance in a city on edge

SUMMARY: President Donald Trump’s threats to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago sent ripples through America’s third-largest city as residents defended their home against Trump’s escalating rhetoric toward violent crime, including claims Chicago is a “killing field.” In a city on edge awaiting news of a potential National Guard deployment, the threat of federal troops stirred a mix of fear, frustration and defiance for residents as they pointed to historic drops in violent crime in the city. Some said it could make things worse with military personnel not being trained in de-escalating violence the way community activists and police are.

WORDS: 1047 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 6:44 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:ef8f6e337e0a120634a350db84d60f46&mediaType=text

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US--DEPORTATION ERROR-ABREGO GARCIA-WHAT TO KNOW

Kilmar Abrego Garcia is back in jail and facing deportation. Here’s what to know

SUMMARY: Kilmar Abrego Garcia is in a Virginia detention center and facing deportation to Uganda. He was detained Monday in Baltimore by immigration authorities after leaving a Tennessee jail on Friday. The Trump administration says he’s a danger to the community, a human smuggler and a gang member. His attorneys say he’s just a family man and a construction worker from El Salvador. His lawyers are fighting the deportation efforts. They say he has the right to express fear of torture in Uganda and to appeal the decisions of immigration authorities. He told the U.S. government he would prefer Costa Rica if he must be deported.

WORDS: 1036 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:42 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:37f8c48c2d9f236055eeaa590d88b027&mediaType=text

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WASHINGTON/POLITICS

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US--DC-FEDERAL INTERVENTION-UNION STATION

Trump extends control over Washington by taking management of Union Station away from Amtrak

SUMMARY: President Donald Trump’s administration is taking control of Washington’s Union Station from Amtrak, marking another federal intervention in the nation’s capital. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the move Wednesday during the launch of the NextGen Acela high-speed train. Duffy says Union Station has “fallen into disrepair” when it should be a “point of pride” for the city, where Trump’s Republican administration has increased federal law and immigration enforcement. Duffy echoes Trump’s call for $2 billion from Congress to beautify Washington as part of his crackdown on the city. National Guard troops have been patrolling Union Station, which is walking distance from the Capitol.

WORDS: 625 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 1:03 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:8c1f5d00ab7591f3f021cf4a9ee8d8e2&mediaType=text

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US--DC-FEDERAL-INTERVENTION-SANDWICH-ARREST

Prosecutors fail to indict sandwich thrower in Trump’s Washington public safety operation

SUMMARY: Federal prosecutors have failed to indict a man who was seen on camera hurling a sandwich at a federal law enforcement official in the nation’s capital. That’s according to a person familiar who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Sean Charles Dunn was arrested on an assault charge after he threw a sub-style sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection agent. A video of the incident went viral, and shortly after he was fired from the Justice Department. Dunn’s arrest came in one of the first days after Trump’s order for federal agents and troops to flood Washington. Prosecutors could go back to try again for an indictment.

WORDS: 593 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 12:11 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:5d6ca5e2834eb0bb7ebe28a5ad188101&mediaType=text

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US--FEDERAL-RESERVE-ENFORCER

Trump foes like Fed Governor Lisa Cook find themselves targeted by top housing regulator

SUMMARY: Bill Pulte, the country’s top housing regulator, has been using his position to target President Trump’s political enemies. He has accused them of mortgage fraud and encouraged investigations. This week, Trump used Pulte’s allegations to attempt to fire Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve board of governors. Cook plans to fight her removal. Pulte has also targeted other Democrats but ignored similar cases involving Republicans. His actions align with Trump’s efforts to pressure opponents using federal power. Pulte, a housing industry scion, has a history of political donations to Trump and his allies.

WORDS: 1384 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:49 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:00d9bf828f824eceda7b30f704d1de71&mediaType=text

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US--TRUMP-SPECIAL COUNSEL INVESTIGATION

Inquiry into former Trump prosecutor Jack Smith is based on ‘imaginary’ premise, lawyers say

SUMMARY: A watchdog investigation into former special counsel Jack Smith over his prosecutions of President Donald Trump is based on an “imaginary and unfounded” premise. That’s according to a letter that Smith’s lawyers wrote that was obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday. The letter marks the first response by Smith and his legal team to news that the Office of Special Counsel, an independent watchdog office, had launched an investigation into whether Smith engaged in improper political activity through his criminal inquiries into Trump. The attorneys told Jamieson Greer, the acting head of the office, that his investigation into Smith was “wholly without merit.”

WORDS: 493 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 10:46 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:815b6ff3a19130933a92fd922b52df5a&mediaType=text

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US--FEMA-LETTER-STAFF

Some FEMA staff are put on leave after signing dissent letter

SUMMARY: Some employees of the Federal Emergency Management Agency who signed a public letter of dissent earlier this week were put on administrative leave Tuesday evening. That’s according to documents reviewed by The Associated Press. More than 180 current and former FEMA employees signed the letter sent to the FEMA Review Council and Congress on Monday critiquing recent cuts to agency staff and programs, and warning that FEMA’s capacity to respond to a major disaster was dangerously diminished. The AP has confirmed that at least two of the signatories received notices Tuesday evening informing them they would be placed on leave indefinitely. FEMA did not immediately respond to questions on how many staff were put on leave.

WORDS: 371 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 10:39 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:4794981bba6415451add5423530159ec&mediaType=text

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US--CONGRESSIONAL MAP-UTAH-THINGS TO KNOW

Utah enters the redistricting battle for 2026, but not by choice. Here’s what to know

SUMMARY: Utah is the latest state at the center of a national redistricting battle ahead of the 2026 midterms. A judge ordered lawmakers this week to quickly redraw the state’s congressional map. That could make one of Utah’s four congressional seats competitive for Democrats, who are trying to gain control of the U.S. House. The judge says the current map is unlawful because the Republican-controlled Legislature circumvented an independent redistricting commission. The ruling throws Republicans a curveball in a state where they expected a clean sweep. GOP leaders could cut their losses by creating a single left-leaning block, or gamble on creating competitive districts that Republicans will fight to keep.

WORDS: 948 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:51 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:100656aa263866946e0fd83f0319894a&mediaType=text

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US--TRUMP-JUDGES SUED

Court tosses lawsuit by Trump against Maryland federal judges, calling it ‘potentially calamitous’

SUMMARY: The White House says a judge’s decision to throw out the Trump administration’s lawsuit against all federal judges in Maryland is a direct assault on the president’s ability to enforce immigration laws. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson says Tuesday’s ruling by U.S. District Judge Thomas Cullen will not be the final say on the suit. The administration has filed a notice of appeal. Cullen was nominated by President Donald Trump but slammed the administration’s lawsuit as “potentially calamitous” in his ruling. Cullen also criticized the Republican administration’s attacks on the judiciary. At issue in the lawsuit was an order by the chief judge of the Maryland district court that stopped the immediate deportation of migrants challenging their removals.

WORDS: 890 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:dc9c203cfc4ca37814179d2b220e361f&mediaType=text

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US--TRUMP-CHINESE STUDENTS-WHAT TO KNOW

Trump saying 600,000 Chinese students could come to the US draws MAGA backlash

SUMMARY: President Donald Trump has sparked backlash from some members of his loyal base by saying his administration would allow 600,000 Chinese students into American universities. That would be a departure for the administration after it’s added new vetting for student visas, moved to block foreign enrollment at Harvard and more. The State Department said in May that it would revoke visas for students tied to the Chinese Communist Party and boost vetting of new applicants. Trump’s announcement Monday adds to confusion about the administration’s restrictive visa policies and its approach to China as the superpowers tussle over trade and intensifying tech competition.

WORDS: 1165 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 4:23 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:dce4e064ea61a4df090865668ca48cde&mediaType=text

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US--FEDERAL INTERVENTION-DEMOCRATS

Democratic governors look to derail Trump’s plan to send National Guard to Chicago and other cities

SUMMARY: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and other top Democrats are warning President Donald Trump to stay out of the cities they run. Trump has suggested sending federal troops to cities like Chicago and Baltimore, claiming violence is out of control. Democrats, including Pritzker, say this is a political move meant to intimidate opponents and another signal of his authoritarian takeover. They argue crime is falling and accuse Trump of ignoring cities with worse crime rates that have Republican leaders. Democrats plan to fight any intervention and use the issue to show they have real public safety solutions.

WORDS: 1125 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 3:29 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:988a659d9d13deb1e7a8f52cf47efef8&mediaType=text

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INTERNATIONAL

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ML--MIDEAST WARS-GAZA

US to host talks on post-war Gaza as Israel calls Gaza City evacuation ‘inevitable’

SUMMARY: Israeli and U.S. officials are to meet in Washington to discuss post-war Gaza. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday even as Israel’s military calls the evacuation of Gaza City “inevitable” ahead of a new offensive and no signs of a ceasefire are in sight. The talks come amid mounting outrage over this week’s double Israeli strike on a southern Gaza hospital that killed journalists, emergency responders and others. Gaza health officials said the death toll from the attack on Nasser Hospital rose to 22 after two more people died Wednesday. The Israeli military offered no immediate explanation for striking twice and no evidence for an assertion that six of the dead were militants.

WORDS: 910 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 12:30 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:bbf916e1576b93d964c8d94fb7c46512&mediaType=text

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EU--DENMARK-GREENLAND-US

Denmark summons US envoy over claims of interference in Greenland

SUMMARY: The top U.S. diplomat in Denmark has been summoned by the government after a report that people connected to Donald Trump have been carrying out covert influence operations in Greenland. Danish broadcaster DR reported Wednesday that at least three Americans have been involved in these operations. They allegedly compiled lists of U.S.-friendly Greenlanders and tried to influence local politics. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service believes Greenland is a target for influence campaigns. It said it is strengthening its efforts and presence in Greenland in cooperation with authorities there. Both Denmark and Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, have publicly said the territory is not for sale, despite Trump’s interest in taking control of it.

WORDS: 567 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 11:15 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:6c9544314792cf1e287e21af06111c1e&mediaType=text

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ML--MIDEAST-WARS-GAZA-EXPLAINER

Here’s a look at why it is so hard to end the war in Gaza

SUMMARY: Israel is on the brink of launching another major offensive, this time in famine-stricken Gaza City. The international community, nearly all Palestinians and many Israelis want the war to end. A ceasefire seemed possible as recently as last month. So why is the conflict set to become even bloodier, nearly two years after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack? Critics of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accuse him of prolonging the war for political reasons. Netanyahu blames Hamas and says criticism of Israel’s wartime conduct is only making the militant group more intransigent.

WORDS: 993 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 10:31 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:2521a7370ab1cd32cbf28943cc8d542e&mediaType=text

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LT--VENEZUELA-FOOD INSECURITY-TAKEAWAYS

Takeaways from AP’s reporting on Venezuelans’ daily struggles to access food

SUMMARY: Venezuelans are facing severe food insecurity amid a prolonged crisis. The Associated Press found that economic collapse, U.S. sanctions, and cuts to aid and subsidies have made necessities unaffordable for many across the South African country. In the state of Falcon, residents struggle daily to buy food. Experts say while famine isn’t imminent, the situation poses long-term health risks. Families often cut protein, leading to poor nutrition. Soup kitchens have closed due to government restrictions on nongovernmental organizations. Aid from the World Food Program has been reduced, worsening the situation. Many Venezuelans now rely on corner stores for food, as grocery trips become rare.

WORDS: 913 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 10:03 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:d160d6a9e69151a2530fd01c87381950&mediaType=text

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AS--SOUTH ASIA FLOODS

Flash floods leave 34 dead in Indian-controlled Kashmir as over 200,000 in Pakistan are displaced

SUMMARY: Officials say intense rains have left at least 34 people dead after lashing parts of Pakistan and India and triggering flash floods and landslides in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Over 200,000 people in Pakistan have been displaced, and the shrine of the founder of the Sikh religion has been submerged. Many of the dead were trekking on a popular Hindu pilgrimage route. Forecasters say rain will continue across the region this week. Heavy downpours and flash floods in the Himalayan region have killed nearly 100 people in August. Scientists say climate change is fueling heavier monsoon rains in South Asia.

WORDS: 538 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:27 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:7764601f6012c24c72f36d4088b56b39&mediaType=text

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EU--RUSSIA-UKRAINE-WAR

Russian forces break into another region of Ukraine with peace efforts stuck

SUMMARY: A Ukrainian military official says Russia’s invading forces have broken into an eighth region of Ukraine, seeking to capture more ground in their three-year war of attrition as U.S.-led peace efforts struggle to gain traction. Victor Trehubov, spokesman for local ground forces, told The Associated Press that some Russian troops have entered two villages in the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region, a major Ukrainian industrial center next to the Donetsk region where fierce fighting has been taking place. Ukrainian troops are under severe strain as they try to hold back Russia’s bigger army.

WORDS: 499 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 8:34 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:38c342ceabdefb399171d587e4cba194&mediaType=text

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AS--ASIA-STORM

Heavy rain causes flooding, landslides and 8 deaths in Vietnam and Thailand

SUMMARY: Heavy rain has caused flooding and landslides in parts of Southeast Asia, where at least eight deaths were reported in the aftermath of a tropical storm. Flooding occurred in northern and central provinces of Vietnam, seven people died, one was missing and 34 were injured, state media reported. Almost 8 inches of rain fell overnight in parts of northeast Vietnam and flood warnings remained for some riverside areas. In Thailand, one person died and seven were missing from a landslide Wednesday in a village in Chiang Mai. Thai officials said many homes were affected and a few people were injured from flash flooding and landslides in northern provinces. More rain was forecast.

WORDS: 285 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 7:59 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:2e6cc358d2b5d5d539097584d9afffea&mediaType=text

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EU--RUSSIA-GASOLINE

Ukrainian drone attacks on oil refineries have some Russian regions running on empty

SUMMARY: Gas stations have run dry in some regions of Russia after Ukrainian drones struck refineries and other oil infrastructure in recent weeks. Motorists are waiting in long lines and officials resorting to rationing or cutting off sales altogether. Wholesale prices on the St. Petersburg International Mercantile Exchange for the highest octane spiked to record highs last week, hitting rates about 50% higher than in January, as demand soared from farmers seeking to bring in the harvest and Russians hitting the roads for a last big vacation of the summer. Russian media outlets reported fuel shortages in several regions in the Far East and in the Crimean Peninsula.

WORDS: 1001 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 7:08 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:2c1364fd199fa594f67ad097d6761814&mediaType=text

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AS--PAKISTAN-INDIA-FLOODS

Mass evacuations in eastern Pakistan as India releases water from swollen rivers

SUMMARY: Officials say rescuers in eastern Pakistan have evacuated tens of thousands of people to safer areas after neighboring India released water from overflowing dams and swollen rivers into low-lying border regions. The move came a day after New Delhi alerted Islamabad about possible cross-border flooding, marking the first public diplomatic contact between the two nuclear-armed rivals in months. Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority said Tuesday it had issued an advance alert about a surge in the Sutlej River and the risk of flooding. It said more evacuations from various districts in the eastern Punjab province are still underway.

WORDS: 610 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 12:29 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:4201f92cd951b36a2b9d9b534df1cd82&mediaType=text

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TROPICAL WEATHER

Tropical storms Juliette and Fernand churn over open waters in different oceans

SUMMARY: Tropical storms Juliette and Fernand are churning over open waters — one in the Pacific Ocean and one in the Atlantic. The Miami-based U.S. National Hurricane Center says no coastal watches or warnings are in effect for either storm. Forecasters say Juliette is expected to weaken in the Pacific on Wednesday and become a remnant low later. Fernand was far from land in the Atlantic and forecast to remain over open ocean waters. Meanwhile, heavy swells from the now-dissipated Hurricane Erin were still slamming into the northern Caribbean. At least 3 deaths attributed to Erin have been reported in Puerto Rico.

WORDS: 341 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:06 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:5552a0bb17a13cf66228b5b58aff99b5&mediaType=text

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BUSINESS

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FINANCIAL MARKETS

Wall Street edges higher as the market awaits Nvidia’s quarterly report

SUMMARY: Stocks are edging higher on Wall Street ahead of a highly anticipated earnings update from Nvidia. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% in midday trading Wednesday, while the Nasdaq composite rose 0.2%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 104 points, or 0.2%. Investors see Nvidia’s quarterly report, coming after the bell, as a barometer for the strength of the boom in artificial intelligence because the company makes most of the chips that power the technology. Cracker Barrel climbed 8.3% after scrapping plans to change its logo following an uproar on social media that even drew a comment from President Trump. Global markets were mixed.

WORDS: 723 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 12:11 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:439aecc08fd134cca14c66eabaa01e93&mediaType=text

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US--CRACKER BARREL-LOGO

Cracker Barrel is keeping its old-time logo after new design elicited an uproar

SUMMARY: Cracker Barrel said late Tuesday it’s returning to its old logo after critics — including President Donald Trump — protested the company’s plan to modernize. In a post on its website, Cracker Barrel said it will retain its old logo, which features an older man in overalls sitting next to a barrel and the words “Old Country Store.” The tempest over the logo began last week, when the company announced plans for a simplified design featuring only the company’s name. Lebanon, Tennessee-based Cracker Barrel made the change as part of a wider plan to modernize its restaurants and appeal to younger customers. But many fans protested the move.

WORDS: 455 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:28 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:8b496da282deef3d8d0618c3f9f4db46&mediaType=text

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AS--INDIA-US-TARIFFS

Trump’s 50% tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases take effect

SUMMARY: India faces a major challenge as steep U.S. tariffs on Indian products take effect. The import duties coming into force on Wednesday threaten over half of India’s exports to its largest overseas market. The situation highlights the fragile trade ties between the two allies. U.S. President Donald Trump had initially announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods, but then imposed an additional 25% tariff due to India’s purchases of Russian oil. That brings the combined U.S. tariffs on India to 50%. The Indian government estimates that $48.2 billion worth of exports will be affected. Labor-intensive sectors like textiles and leather will likely be hit hardest. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed not to yield to U.S. pressure.

WORDS: 720 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 7:15 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:48ac6d5e172df04832c75d2a57d0a860&mediaType=text

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US--MIDEAST-WARS-GAZA-MICROSOFT

Microsoft protesters occupy president’s office as company reviews its work with Israel’s military

SUMMARY: Police have arrested seven people after they occupied an office at Microsoft’s headquarters in Washington state. The protest group No Azure for Apartheid says those arrested included current and former Microsoft employees, and that they occupied an office of company President Brad Smith. Azure is Microsoft’s primary cloud computing platform. Smith says Microsoft is looking into reports that the Israeli military has used Azure to help select targets in the ongoing war in Gaza, but that any such use would violate the company’s terms of service. Smith told a media briefing Tuesday that Microsoft will uphold its human rights principles and its contractual terms of service.

WORDS: 461 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 8:56 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:8820200cec5996987d49fbb669322b22&mediaType=text

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US--FEDERAL RESERVE-COOK

Embattled Fed Governor Lisa Cook’s lawyer says she’ll sue Trump to keep her job

SUMMARY: Federal Reserve Gov. Lisa Cook’s lawyer says she’ll sue President Donald Trump’s administration to try to prevent him from firing her. Longtime Washington attorney Abbe Lowell said Tuesday that Trump “has no authority to remove” Cook. If Trump succeeds in removing Cook from the Fed’s board of governors, it could erode the Fed’s political independence, which is considered critical to its ability to fight inflation because it enables the Fed to take unpopular steps like raising interest rates. The Republican president said Monday he was removing Cook because of allegations she committed mortgage fraud. Cook was appointed by Democratic President Joe Biden in 2022.

WORDS: 1275 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:57 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:d7b3d05bcb5d6a80aacff913bf7bff96&mediaType=text

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US--CHATBOT STUDY

Study says AI chatbots need to fix suicide response, as family sues over ChatGPT role in boy’s death

SUMMARY: A study finds that AI chatbots often avoid answering high-risk suicide questions but are inconsistent with less direct prompts. Published Tuesday in the journal Psychiatric Services, the study highlights the need for improvement in chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude. Researchers from RAND Corporation emphasize the importance of setting benchmarks for how AI handles mental health queries. Concerns arise as more people, including children, rely on these tools for support. The study coincides with a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT contributed to a California teenager’s suicide. Researchers urge companies to enhance safety measures.

WORDS: 1255 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 2:24 p.m. EDT

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HEALTH/SCIENCE

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US-MED--NEW COVID SHOTS

FDA approves updated COVID-19 shots but limits access for some kids and adults

SUMMARY: The Food and Drug Administration has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the upcoming fall and winter season. But it could be weeks before many Americans know whether they’ll be able to get one, under new restrictions from the Trump administration. The new shots from Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax target newer version of the coronavirus. They are approved for all seniors but only for younger adults and children with at least one underlying health problem, like obesity. Additionally, officials revoked use of Pfizer’s vaccine in young children.

WORDS: 1010 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 1:10 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:9ce19908ae7afb354732aa162fd28532&mediaType=text

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MED--BE WELL-NA DRINKS

Nonalcoholic beer and mocktails can help people stay sober or drink less, but are not for everyone

SUMMARY: Nonalcoholic beverages are taking off. Consumers include people recovering from addiction, those trying to cut down on their drinking and the rising numbers of young adults forgoing alcohol altogether. Retail sales of nonalcoholic wine, beer and spirits surged to $823 million last year. The booming industry reflects a shift in the scientific consensus around alcohol. Recent research shows that drinking less, or nothing at all, is healthier than drinking more. Alcohol has been linked to cancers, injuries, cardiovascular disease and a host of other problems. Still, health experts say NA beverages aren’t for everyone, especially if they might trigger cravings for alcohol.

WORDS: 940 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:54 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:294a5de375fc7798c98a5b64691ed6f0&mediaType=text

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RELIGION

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EU-REL--VATICAN-GAZA

Pope demands end to ‘collective punishment’ and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza

SUMMARY: Pope Leo XIV is demanding that Israel stop the “collective punishment” and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza. Leo was interrupted twice by applause as he read aloud his latest appeal for an end to the 22-month war during his weekly general audience Wednesday. History’s first American pope also called for the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas in southern Israel, and for both sides and international players to end the war. Palestinians in Gaza are bracing for Israel’s promised offensive in some of the territory’s most populated areas including Gaza City, where famine has been documented and declared.

WORDS: 644 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 7:32 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:0b1c1d5eb2c8d257248638ff231e9c2f&mediaType=text

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EDUCATION

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US--BE WELL-EDUCATION-PET-FRIENDLY DORMS

These colleges are welcoming pets in dorms to reduce students’ stress and anxiety

SUMMARY: Some colleges are allowing pets in dorms to help students feel more at home. Eckerd College in Florida lets students bring pets like dogs and cats after their first semester. This policy helps reduce stress and build connections. Other schools, like MIT and the University of Northern Colorado, have similar rules with some restrictions. Students say having a pet helps with stress and homesickness. Colleges consider safety and costs, but many see the benefits. At graduation, some schools even let pets join students on stage. For many, pets are an important part of college life.

WORDS: 884 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 12:51 p.m. EDT

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ENT--PEOPLE-TAYLOR SWIFT-TRAVIS KELCE-TIMELINE

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s love story, from friendship bracelets to engagement rings

SUMMARY: It started with a friendship bracelet. It ended with an engagement ring. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged. The news was revealed in a joint post on Instagram. It is the fairytale culmination of a courtship that for two years has thrilled and fascinated millions around the world. It started with Kelce attempting to give Swift his phone number via friendship bracelet at one of her concerts in 2023. It spanned two Super Bowls and Swift’s history-making tour. It included the announcement of her 12th studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl.” And eventually, it will lead to a marriage.

WORDS: 1451 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 7:34 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:ed54ba90659d9f644854902ddf6bb632&mediaType=text

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ENT--PEOPLE-TAYLOR SWIFT-TRAVIS KELCE

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged

SUMMARY: It’s a love story and, baby, she said yes. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged. The superstar singer and football player revealed the news in a five-photo joint post on Instagram on Tuesday. It’s the fairytale culmination of a courtship that for two years has thrilled and fascinated millions around the world. It’s unclear when and where the two got engaged. The announcement comes not long after Swift’s appearance on “New Heights” as part of the rollout of her upcoming album. That’s the podcast hosted by the Kansas City Chiefs tight end and his brother Jason Kelce.

WORDS: 963 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 5:10 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:d585627eb98b69428ce206a2c8a9cb7d&mediaType=text

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ENT--PEOPLE-LIL NAS X

Lil Nas X says arrest and jail time were ‘terrifying’

SUMMARY: Lil Nas X is calling his recent arrest and jail time as “terrifying.” He made his first public comments on Tuesday after being charged with attacking Los Angeles police officers. The 26-year-old rapper and singer pleaded not guilty to four felony counts on Monday and was released on bail after four days in jail. In an Instagram video posted Tuesday, he said he’s going to be OK. Authorities say he was walking naked in LA’s San Fernando Valley and charged at officers. He’s charged with three felony counts of battery with injury on a police officer and one count of resisting an executive officer.

WORDS: 344 - MOVED: 08/26/2025 4:52 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3ee5d684fd443733ff87df119474ebdd&mediaType=text

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SPORTS

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TEN--US OPEN-TENNIS STARS WHO GOLF

US Open tennis champs Alcaraz, Federer and Nadal love golf. Golfers say the tennis stars have game

SUMMARY: Carlos Alcaraz used his racket to pantomime using a club on the course after his first victory at this year’s U.S. Open. Perhaps that was a nod to one of the fans in the stands at Arthur Ashe Stadium, golf star Rory McIlroy. Plenty of athletes eyeing a trophy on the hard courts of New York, including the man Alcaraz beat in the 2022 final, Casper Ruud, and 2024 runner-up Jessica Pegula, are swapping fuzzy yellow tennis balls for dimpled white golf balls as a way to relax. So are past greats such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

WORDS: 873 - MOVED: 08/27/2025 9:29 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:b5be558eb75597a9d64961491f360151&mediaType=text

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