Ref News Today — August 26, 2026
A Surrogate Fled to Texas to Avoid an Abortion. Now She Wants Custody of the Baby. and more — today's ref signal.
As we read through today's news, it's clear that change and challenge are on the minds of people around the world. In the United States, a complex and personal story is unfolding, as a surrogate mother who traveled to Texas to avoid an abortion is now seeking custody of the baby she carried. This story highlights the deeply personal and often difficult choices that people face, and the ways in which laws and social norms can shape those choices.
Beyond the borders of the US, we see other examples of change and challenge. In Ukraine, the conflict with Russia continues to escalate, with both sides targeting critical infrastructure - in this case, refineries and petrol pumps. Meanwhile, in the world of entertainment, fans are mourning the loss of a beloved icon, Dolly Parton, whose music and legacy touched millions of people. And in the world of sports, Manchester United is looking to shore up its lineup with some key new signings. As we navigate these varied stories, it's clear that change is a constant theme - and that people are finding ways to adapt, to persevere, and to make their voices heard.
Today's signal:
• A Surrogate Fled to Texas to Avoid an Abortion. Now She Wants Custody of the Baby. (nytimes.com)
• Dolly Parton’s Death Hits Home for Tennesseans: ‘She Was One of Us’ (nytimes.com)
• As Ukraine hits Russia's refineries, Russia targets Ukraine's petrol pumps (bbc.co.uk)
• 'We used flour for powder' - Dolly reflects on early life in 1979 BBC interview (bbc.co.uk)
• Dolly Parton: Life of the music legend whose songs touched millions (bbc.co.uk)
• Man Utd's midfield spending is done - now for a left-back? (bbc.co.uk)