Virginia Times News Wrap-Up: July 26, 2025

From border declarations to humanitarian updates and political shifts, here’s your morning digest from Virginia Times to start your weekend informed.

What You Must Declare When Entering the U.S.

CBP reminds travelers to declare all food, plants, seeds, and animal products. Non-compliance could result in penalties.

Full Story

Israel Resumes Gaza Airdrops Amid Global Pressure

Following global calls for humanitarian aid, Israel announced the resumption of food and relief supply airdrops over Gaza.

Full Story

Fairfax County Activates Heat Plan for July 27

In response to forecasted extreme temperatures, Fairfax County will open cooling centers for residents this Sunday.

Full Story

USPS Celebrates 250 Years of Delivering for America

The Postal Service marks its milestone anniversary with commemorative events, historical tributes, and public engagement nationwide.

Full Story

Trump Calls for Ceasefire in Cambodia–Thailand Conflict

President Trump urges Southeast Asian leaders to halt hostilities and return to diplomatic trade discussions with the U.S.

Full Story

Chukauni – Spicy Nepali Yogurt Potato Salad

This traditional dish from Palpa blends potatoes, yogurt, mustard oil, and spices into a rich, tangy favorite. Here’s how to make it.

Full Story

FBI Marks 117 Years of Service to the Nation

Reflecting on its 117-year journey, the FBI highlights its ongoing commitment to public safety and justice across the U.S.

Full Story

‘Made in America Week 2025’ Wraps with a Push for Manufacturing

The President wraps up the week with a call for stronger domestic production and renewed investment in American industry.

Full Story

Don’t Be Fooled: A Reader’s Guide to Spotting Bad Journalism

Our expert guide helps readers distinguish between credible reporting and AI-fueled misinformation or low-effort content.

Full Story

Polls Show Sharp Drop in Trump Approval Amid Epstein Scandal

New polling reveals a significant decline in President Trump’s approval, driven by backlash over his Epstein-related statements and leadership issues.

Full Story

Elon Musk Unveils Grok AI’s New ‘Auto Mode’ for Smarter, Faster Replies

Elon Musk introduced Grok AI’s groundbreaking ‘Auto Mode,’ designed to deliver faster and more intelligent responses by adapting to user preferences in real-time.

MTG Slams Trump’s AI Order: “This Threatens State Rights and Water Security”

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized President Trump’s executive order on AI, warning it could undermine state sovereignty and affect critical water resource management.

Fungus from the Amazon Could Help Solve Plastic Pollution Crisis

A rare fungus discovered in the Amazon rainforest has shown the ability to break down plastics rapidly. Scientists say it could offer new hope in solving the global plastic waste crisis.

Longest Solar Eclipse in Over 100 Years to Darken Skies in August 2027

Astronomers are preparing for the longest total solar eclipse in over a century, set to occur in August 2027. The eclipse will pass over North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.

Palm Beach Post Reveals: Trump and Clinton Took Multiple Rides on Epstein’s Planes

A Palm Beach Post investigation revealed both Donald Trump and Bill Clinton took several flights aboard Epstein’s private jets. The revelations have renewed calls for transparency and accountability.

Trump Dismisses Idea of Pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell Amid DOJ Memo Fallout

President Trump denied ever considering a pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell, calling recent speculation “nonsense” following a DOJ memo leak.

Trump Slams France Over Palestine Move: “Doesn’t Carry Weight”

Trump dismissed France’s decision to recognize Palestine, saying it holds no practical weight and could complicate U.S.-EU relations on Middle East policy.

Trump Administration Releases $6 Billion in Withheld Education Grants

After months of delay, the Trump administration approved the release of $6 billion in federal education grants, boosting K-12 support and special needs programs across all 50 states.

Australia Opens Market to U.S. Beef in Landmark Trade Shift Backed by Trump

Australia has agreed to open its domestic market to U.S. beef exports, marking a major trade breakthrough supported by the Trump administration. American ranchers are celebrating the move.

What We Know So Far About Trump and Clinton’s Names in Epstein’s Birthday Album

A new WSJ lawsuit reveals that both Donald Trump and Bill Clinton were listed in Jeffrey Epstein’s “birthday album.” Legal experts say the images may be critical evidence in ongoing civil cases.

Extreme Heat Grips DC Metro Area: Advisory Issued for July 25, 2025

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Washington D.C. and surrounding areas. High humidity and temperatures over 100°F are expected throughout the day.

AI Is Not the Enemy—Dishonesty Is

In this thought-provoking editorial, Virginia Times explores how misinformation—not artificial intelligence—is the true threat to journalism, urging a renewed focus on transparency and ethical reporting.

Iran Nuclear Talks Restart in Istanbul Amid Sanctions Threat and Regional Tensions

Representatives from Tehran and Western powers resumed nuclear negotiations in Istanbul, with looming sanctions and ongoing Middle East unrest casting uncertainty over the outcome.

Meet Viatina-19: The World’s Most Expensive Cow Ever Sold

Brazil’s prized heifer, Viatina-19 FIV Mara Móveis, made history after selling for over $4 million, becoming the most expensive cow ever auctioned globally.