NPR News Now: January 12, 2025, 7AM EST

In today's episode of NPR News Now, listeners are presented with a comprehensive overview of the latest developments both nationally and internationally. The episode delves into the severe wildfires impacting California, the prestigious awarding of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Pope Francis, significant personnel changes within the Department of Justice, unexpected military engagements involving North Korean troops in Ukraine, and the political landscape in Croatia. Below is a detailed summary of each segment, enriched with notable quotes and precise attributions.

1. California Wildfires Threaten Los Angeles and Cultural Landmarks

Host: Giles Snyder
Timestamp: [00:15]

California is grappling with devastating wildfires that pose a significant threat to Los Angeles and its surrounding areas. Governor Gavin Newsom is actively mobilizing resources, welcoming firefighters from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico to assist in combating the infernos. Currently, over nine Western states are providing mutual aid, contributing to a robust force of 12,000 personnel engaged in firefighting efforts. Additionally, the deployment includes 1,680 National Guard members who are patrolling streets and aiding law enforcement in maintaining order.

The two primary fires, the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, are reported to be 11% and 15% contained, respectively. Authorities warn that fire danger in Southern California will persist through at least Wednesday, exacerbated by ongoing Santa Ana winds and dry conditions. The toll is mounting, with more than 12,000 structures destroyed and the death count rising to 16.

The wildfires have notably impacted Los Angeles's cultural landmarks. Chloe Veltman reports that the esteemed Getty Center has been forced to issue evacuation orders. While the museum remains undamaged and staff are safe, its coastal counterpart, the Getty Villa, experienced vegetation loss due to the fires. Michael Rogers, Getty's Director of Facilities, emphasized the institution's preparedness:

"We have a strong culture of safety within the institution. We think about emergencies and preparedness constantly."
[01:53]

Other significant cultural sites affected include the Will Rogers State Historic Park, the Topanga Ranch Motel (formerly owned by William Randolph Hearst), and the Zane Grey estate, home to the renowned western novelist. These losses underscore the extensive reach of the wildfires beyond residential areas.

2. President Biden Awards Pope Francis with Presidential Medal of Freedom

Host: Giles Snyder
Timestamp: [02:19]

In a moment of high honor, President Joe Biden bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction upon Pope Francis, marking the first instance of this added level of honor under Biden's administration. Juliana Kim reports that the president had initially planned a visit to the Vatican to personally present the award but had to cancel the trip to oversee wildfire relief efforts in California. Despite the cancellation, Biden and Pope Francis maintained their connection through a phone conversation on Saturday.

The White House highlighted Pope Francis's lifelong dedication to serving the poor, advocating for world peace, and addressing environmental issues as the primary reasons for this prestigious award. Biden, the second Catholic president in U.S. history, and Pope Francis, the third pope to receive the medal, share a longstanding rapport that predates Biden's presidency. This recognition not only honors the Pope's individual contributions but also underscores the collaborative spirit between global leaders in addressing humanitarian and environmental challenges.

3. Special Counsel Jack Smith Resigns from the Justice Department

Host: Giles Snyder
Timestamp: [03:09]

In a significant development within the Department of Justice (DOJ), Special Counsel Jack Smith has tendered his resignation, effective as of Friday. The DOJ disclosed Smith's departure through a court filing over the weekend. His resignation emerges amidst intense legal wrangling surrounding a comprehensive two-volume report detailing cases against then-President elect Donald Trump that Smith and his team had meticulously prepared. This move marks a pivotal shift in the administration's handling of high-profile legal matters and sets the stage for potential future developments within the DOJ.

4. Ukraine Reports Capture of North Korean Soldiers Fighting for Russia

Host: Giles Snyder
Timestamp: [03:09]

In an unexpected turn of events in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukrainian forces have captured two North Korean soldiers reportedly fighting alongside Russian troops. Sharing this information on the social media platform Telegram, Zelenskyy stated that the soldiers sustained injuries in the Kursk region, an area partially occupied by Russian forces. The captured soldiers are now cooperating with Ukraine's domestic intelligence agency and are slated to provide statements to journalists.

Joanna Kakisis reports that Ukraine's Special Operations Forces released a video documenting the capture, complete with dramatic music. In the footage, one soldier appears lethargic as medics attend to his wounds, while another is shown with bandaged arms and wearing a striped sweater. Zelenskyy confirmed that both soldiers are receiving medical treatment in Kyiv. This incident highlights the complex international dimensions of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, introducing North Korea as an unexpected party in the fray.

5. Croatia's Presidential Runoff Election Favors Incumbent Zora Milanovic

Host: Giles Snyder
Timestamp: [04:31]

Voters in Croatia are participating in a critical presidential runoff election, a decisive step following the initial round of voting last month where incumbent Zora Milanovic garnered substantial support but fell short of securing an outright majority against seven other candidates. In this runoff, Milanovic is the favored candidate to clinch the presidency.

A noteworthy aspect of Milanovic's campaign is her critical stance on Western military support for Ukraine, a position that has garnered both support and controversy within Croatia's political landscape. Her leadership is anticipated to influence not only Croatia's domestic policies but also its stance in broader international affairs, particularly in relation to the ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights presented in the January 12, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a clear and detailed overview of pressing issues shaping the current news landscape.