This is your Virginia Times Morning News Highlights for Monday, July 28, 2025, featuring major developments across Asia, Europe, and the United States. From a surprise ceasefire in Southeast Asia to U.S. court rulings and intensifying war in Ukraine, here’s what you need to know to start your day informed.

What You Need to Know About the Cambodia–Thailand Ceasefire Deal
Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” following Malaysia-led mediation. The breakthrough ends weeks of escalating border conflict and opens the door to further ASEAN-led peace efforts.
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Arizona Woman Sentenced to Over 8 Years for Role in $17M North Korean IT Fraud Scheme
An Arizona woman has been sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for helping North Korean IT workers infiltrate U.S. companies and launder millions through fraudulent contracts. The DOJ called it a rare national security case with global implications.
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Russian Air Strike Injures 8 in Kyiv; Zelensky Warns of Intensifying Drone Warfare
A Russian missile strike in Kyiv’s Darnytskyi District injured at least eight civilians, including a child. Ukrainian President Zelensky warned of escalating drone warfare in response to continued Russian attacks on urban centers.
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Opinion | Trump’s EU Trade Deal: Strategic Win or Uneven Gamble?
President Trump’s newly signed EU–U.S. trade agreement promises tariff reductions and industrial expansion, but critics warn of an uneven playing field. A closer look at whether this is a bold strategic success or a political gamble.
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Markets Surge After Landmark EU–US Trade Deal
Stock markets surged globally after the U.S. and EU reached a trade deal reducing tariffs and harmonizing regulatory frameworks. Analysts say the move stabilizes economic ties amid global uncertainty.
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Editorial: How Virginia Times Produces Original, Standards-Driven Journalism
From source verification to visual design, Virginia Times breaks down how every report is created with transparency, originality, and public accountability at its core.
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America’s Birth Certificate: Historic Map on Display at the Library of Congress
The 1507 Waldseemüller map—the first known document to name “America”—is now on public display at the Library of Congress, offering a rare glimpse into the roots of U.S. identity and cartographic history.
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Understanding Fairfax County’s Heat Emergency Plan: A Community Guide to Extreme Heat Safety
As temperatures soar, Fairfax County has activated its Heat Emergency Plan, opening cooling centers and issuing public safety guidance to help residents protect themselves against life-threatening heat risks.
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AI-Powered Fraud Is Escalating—Here’s What You Need to Know
AI-generated fraud schemes are rising fast, targeting consumers with deepfakes, phishing, and synthetic identity theft. Experts advise enhanced vigilance and regulatory frameworks to address emerging risks.
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Trump Alleges Illegal Payments to Beyoncé, Oprah, Sharpton for Endorsements
President Trump has claimed that several high-profile celebrities, including Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Al Sharpton, received undisclosed payments in exchange for political endorsements. The remarks have reignited controversy amid the ongoing Epstein-related fallout.
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Identity Fraud Cost Americans $47 Billion in 2024, Study Finds
A new study reveals American consumers lost a staggering $47 billion to identity fraud in 2024, driven by synthetic fraud and compromised credentials. Experts urge stronger digital vigilance and federal policy updates.
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Israel Implements Daily Tactical Pause to Facilitate Gaza Humanitarian Aid
To support aid access, Israel will enforce daily tactical pauses in military operations across specific Gaza areas, coordinated with the UN and international agencies. Secure aid corridors will remain active from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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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.
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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.
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