News Today: August 27, 2025

NEW YORK (AP) - A whirlwind of political, economic, and cultural developments marked August 27, 2025, as leaders squared off over tariffs and security, explorers reached new frontiers in space, and celebrities celebrated a surprise engagement.

U.S. Politics and Policy President Donald Trump intensified his tough-on-crime stance by threatening to deploy the National Guard to additional cities, drawing criticism from civil liberties advocates. On the same day, his 50 percent tariff on imports from India officially took effect, prompting warnings of higher retail prices and retaliation risks. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook filed suit challenging the administration’s move to remove her from office, setting up a high-stakes legal battle over central bank independence.

Global Economy Beijing and Washington agreed to extend their trade truce by 90 days in an effort to stave off renewed escalations that could roil global markets. Observers note that this extension follows months of tit-for-tat tariffs and aims to provide breathing room for negotiators as the two largest economies seek common ground.

Science and Technology After several explosive setbacks, SpaceX achieved a milestone with a successful Starship test flight, marking a turning point in the company’s quest for cost-effective deep-space transport. Company executives hailed the mission as proof of rapid iterative design paying dividends in spacecraft reliability.

Disasters and Public Safety Heavy monsoon rains in northern India triggered landslides and flash floods around the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route. At least five pilgrims perished and scores were injured when a hillside collapsed along the mountain trek; rescue teams used boats to evacuate stranded students whose hostel had been submerged under seven feet of water.

International Affairs Israel’s government pressed on with its Gaza offensive despite widespread protests in Tel Aviv demanding a ceasefire and hostage deal. Hundreds of thousands demonstrated peacefully, while diplomatic efforts intensified to manage the humanitarian fallout-underscoring the region’s deep polarization.

Entertainment In a surprise announcement that delighted fans, pop superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce revealed their engagement on social media. The couple’s news instantly trended worldwide, highlighting the enduring cultural power of celebrity unions.

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