Here’s a sharper tour of today’s Virginia Times coverage — from President Trump’s revival of the “Department of War” title, a federal search at Hyundai’s HL-GA Battery, and D.C.’s National Guard lawsuit to Ukraine’s security-guarantee drive, Thailand’s new prime minister, a $1.7B Powerball surge, South Africa’s ODI breakthrough in England, N&W 611’s fall excursions, UVA & W&M’s Forbes nods, and a practical roundup of 25 productivity-boosting tools. Scan the summaries and jump straight to what matters most.
Trump Restores Department of War (Secondary Title for DoD)
President Donald Trump signed an executive order restoring “Department of War” as a secondary title for the Department of Defense, a symbolic change meant to revive historic nomenclature while keeping the Pentagon’s current structure intact. According to a White House fact sheet, the order marks Trump’s 200th executive action and emphasizes deterrence, readiness, and victory-oriented messaging. The move drew attention in Washington but does not alter authorities, budgets, or chain of command within the department.
Federal Search at HL-GA Battery, Hyundai Metaplant (Operation Low Voltage)
Federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at HL-GA Battery Company, LLC on the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America campus in Ellabell, Georgia. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, the action was part of “Operation Low Voltage,” a federal investigation. Officials did not announce arrests or charges and said no details would be released at this time while agents process evidence and coordinate with partner agencies.
D.C. Sues Over National Guard Deployment
The District of Columbia filed suit against the Trump administration over the deployment of National Guard troops in the city, alleging an unconstitutional “involuntary military occupation.” According to Attorney General Brian Schwalb’s office, the complaint seeks to halt what it describes as unauthorized federal control within D.C.’s boundaries and to reaffirm local authority over public safety. The lawsuit was filed and includes requests for declaratory and injunctive relief as the case proceeds in Superior Court.
Trump Threatens Section 301 Over EU’s Google Fine
President Trump criticized the European Union’s latest antitrust fine against Google and said he would consider action under Section 301 of U.S. trade law. As reported by Virginia Times earlier, Trump wrote on Truth Social that the penalty was “very unfair” and warned his administration would not allow “discriminatory actions” to stand. The European Commission’s case concerns competition issues; any U.S. response would likely begin with a formal investigation before potential tariffs or negotiated remedies.
Powerball Jackpot Soars to $1.7B, Third Largest in U.S.
The Powerball jackpot climbed to roughly $1.7 billion, the third-largest lottery prize in U.S. history, with a cash option estimated at about $770.3 million. According to the Virginia Lottery, players will have another chance in Saturday’s drawing, and a $1 million ticket was sold this week at a Manassas Wawa on Sudley Road. Two additional Virginia winners matched four numbers plus the Powerball via the lottery’s mobile app, underscoring heightened participation statewide amid surging interest.
South Africa Clinch ODI Series in England After 27 Years
South Africa clinched an ODI series win in England, their first there in 27 years, capping a landmark run under captain Temba Bavuma. According to coverage from the Times of India cited by Virginia Times, the result follows the nation’s recent World Test Championship success and adds momentum before upcoming white-ball assignments. The visitors’ bowlers closed out tense finishes, and the batting unit delivered key partnerships at crunch moments to secure a breakthrough away-series triumph.
Anutin Charnvirakul Elected Thailand’s 32nd Prime Minister
Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, was elected Thailand’s 32nd prime minister after a parliamentary vote sealed a new governing alignment. According to Thailand’s state news agency MCOT, Anutin pledged to focus on economic stability, domestic tourism growth, and pragmatic coalition management as his cabinet is formed in the coming days. The vote ends weeks of maneuvering among major blocs and sets expectations for policy continuity alongside targeted reforms in public health and infrastructure.
26 Nations Back Security Guarantees for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said 26 countries have agreed in principle to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, following a high-level “Coalition of the Willing” conference in Paris. As reported by Virginia Times, Zelenskyy also described a “long and detailed” conversation with President Donald Trump about pursuing a sustainable peace framework and tightening economic pressure on Russia. Kyiv is working on strengthening air defenses while partners translate political commitments into timelines, verification steps, and coordinated support.
N&W 611 to Lead Shenandoah Valley Limited Trips
The iconic Norfolk & Western 611 steam locomotive will lead Shenandoah Valley Limited excursions this fall, returning a living piece of rail history to Virginia’s Blue Ridge corridor. According to Virginia Scenic Railway, trips will operate on select dates with tiered ticket options and an early access window for certain payment platforms. The outings promise fall foliage views, family-friendly programming, and railfan photo opportunities as the 4-8-4 “J”-class engine hauls vintage cars through the Valley.
Shreya Ghoshal to Open ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
Indian playback singer Shreya Ghoshal will perform at the Grand Opening Ceremony of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in Guwahati, ahead of India’s first match against Sri Lanka. According to the ICC announcement, tickets will be released in phases with fan-friendly pricing to help fill venues across four Indian cities and Colombo. An exclusive early-purchase window via a designated payment platform precedes general sales as organizers spotlight women’s cricket’s energy, spirit, and unity.
Two Virginia Colleges Make Forbes’ Top 25 Public Colleges
Two Virginia institutions—the University of Virginia and William & Mary—appeared on Forbes’ list of the Top 25 Public Colleges, highlighting selective academics and strong value metrics. According to Forbes’ methodology, the rankings weigh outcomes, affordability, student experience, and alumni earnings to benchmark public universities against elite privates. Virginia leaders hailed the recognition as validation of sustained investment in research and undergraduate teaching that keeps the Commonwealth competitive in talent development and economic growth.
Top 25 AI Tools to Transform Work, Study, and Creativity
Virginia Times compiled a practical guide to 25 popular tools for work, study, and creative projects, from code assistants and avatar video makers to auto-music generators and SEO helpers. The list offers short descriptions and “read more” links for each product, emphasizing real-world use cases and time-saving workflows. Readers can scan categories, explore free tiers, and bookmark favorites for content creation, classroom tasks, or small-business marketing, all in one accessible roundup without hype or fluff.
Trump Says U.S. Has “Lost India and Russia to China”
Responding to high-profile visits in China by Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi, President Trump wrote on Truth Social that the United States had “lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China.” As reported by Virginia Times, the comments followed a week of tightly staged diplomacy in China, including an SCO summit and a military parade. Trump framed the optics as a major strategic setback and said Washington must recalibrate to prevent a deeper geopolitical realignment.
This wrap-up reflects stories published on Friday, September 5, 2025. Coverage may be updated as new articles post.
Virginia Times — independent news from Virginia and beyond.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
