

CNN 5 Things
CNN
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates at 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 19, 2025 • 6min
Putin-Zelensky meeting, tariff rebate checks, Hurricane Erin forecast & more
Tensions rise as discussions emerge about a potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky, aimed at easing conflict. Meanwhile, upcoming releases of Jeffrey Epstein case files promise to shed light on past controversies. Concerns grow as the Trump administration dismisses tariff rebate checks amidst surging import prices. Hurricane Erin is also making waves along the East Coast, creating urgency for residents. In Texas, a lawmaker's dramatic protest highlights ongoing political clashes over congressional maps.

Aug 19, 2025 • 7min
Ukraine’s allies meet, Home Depot prices, new Kohberger files & more
Western allies are rallying to support Ukraine, raising questions about the US's future role. Amidst this, Home Depot is increasing prices due to tariffs. In health news, pediatricians conflict with CDC guidelines on COVID vaccines for young kids. Meanwhile, unsettling details about Bryan Kohberger emerge, shedding light on his troubling interactions prior to the Idaho college killings.

6 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 7min
US troops in Ukraine, Ozempic discount, Miss Universe first & more
Discover the latest on diplomatic efforts to conclude the war in Ukraine, including President Trump's shifting stance on U.S. involvement. Learn about the influx of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., amid ongoing legal debates about the Alligator Alcatraz detention center. Plus, find out how Americans can snag Ozempic at half price. And don't miss a groundbreaking moment in the Miss Universe pageant, where a contestant shines a light on Palestinian representation.

Aug 19, 2025 • 7min
Putin distrust, Epstein record handover, FBI shake-up & more
Cautious EU leaders express skepticism about Putin's intentions for peace in Ukraine. The DOJ is set to release records related to Jeffrey Epstein, raising eyebrows. Hamas faces challenges with a new ceasefire proposal. Significant changes are on the horizon for the FBI with fresh appointments and leadership dynamics. Meanwhile, an Air Canada flight attendant strike appears on the brink of resolution, promising smoother travels ahead.

4 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 7min
Zelensky-Putin meeting, TX floor drama, mail-in ballots & more
A potential meeting is brewing between Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian President Putin, driven by Trump’s diplomatic push. Meanwhile, a dramatic standoff unfolds in Texas as a Democratic lawmaker spends the night on the House floor over redistricting disputes. Attention shifts to the 2026 midterms, with Trump attacking mail-in ballots. In other news, Hurricane Erin raises safety concerns with deadly rip currents in North Carolina. Lastly, find out more about the legal ramifications surrounding the death of actor Matthew Perry.

Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
High-stakes talks, Newsmax settlement, measles outbreak update & more
Multilateral talks are underway in the White House aiming to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations are ongoing between Israel and Hamas. In domestic news, a tragic shooting has claimed the lives of two police officers. Additionally, a prominent right-wing outlet has settled a defamation lawsuit regarding its 2020 election coverage. Lastly, health officials in Texas confirm the measles outbreak has officially ended after a significant toll, highlighting ongoing vaccination discussions.

Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
Trump welcomes Zelensky, TX quorum reached, MSNBC name-change & more
In a high-stakes meeting, President Trump plays host to Ukrainian President Zelensky amid rising tensions with Russia. The fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein probe kicks off with major political implications as witnesses begin testifying. Meanwhile, Texas House Democrats finally reach a resolution in their redistricting conflict. The media landscape also shifts as MSNBC undergoes a rebranding, while a controversial Swiss watchmaker's advertising sparks debate. Tune in for insights on these pressing issues!

Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
‘Alligator Alcatraz’ hearing, back-to-school shopping, new dictionary words & more
Leaders from Ukraine and Europe are convening at the White House to discuss a potential peace plan with Russia. A federal judge is reviewing a lawsuit against a controversial immigration detention center in Florida. Chilling insights emerge from a leaked recording involving Israeli military intelligence. Surprisingly, back-to-school shopping trends are showing unexpected locales. Meanwhile, TikTok is influencing language with new words making it into the dictionary.

12 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
Land for peace deal, redistricting fights, AT&T data breach payout & more
Ukraine's president faces pressure to trade land for peace at a crucial summit. Redistricting battles heat up in Texas and California. A tragic shooting unfolds at a busy Brooklyn lounge, prompting police action. The U.S. suspends visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, raising humanitarian concerns. Meanwhile, AT&T subscribers might benefit from a significant data breach settlement. Tune in for a deep dive into these pressing issues!

Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
White House summit, Hurricane Erin, sending troops to DC & more
European leaders gather at the White House to strengthen alliances amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine. Hurricane Erin's rapid intensification presents a looming threat along the eastern coast. Hundreds of National Guard troops head to Washington, D.C. as local policing faces scrutiny. In Israel, a significant demonstration erupts, reflecting public outcry for a ceasefire amidst the conflict. Meanwhile, Air Canada flight attendants stand firm in their strike for better wages, challenging government orders.