NPR News Now: January 27, 2025, 7 AM EST
Hosted by Kristen Wright | Source: NPR
Colombian President Accepts US-Deported Migrants Amidst Tensions
[00:16] Kristen Wright opens the episode with a report on the escalating tensions between the United States and Colombia over the deportation of Colombian migrants.
John Otis reports from Bogotá, detailing how the Trump administration attempted to repatriate 160 Colombian deportees via two military aircraft. However, Colombian President Gustavo Petro intervened, revoking the landing rights of these flights, citing concerns over the migrants' treatment. In retaliation, President Trump threatened "steep tariffs on all Colombian imports and other sanctions."
Initially, Petro responded by imposing reciprocal tariffs on U.S. imports, stating, "your blockade doesn't scare me," demonstrating a firm stance against U.S. pressure. However, the situation took a turn when Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo announced that Colombia would proceed with accepting the deportation flights, signaling a resolution to the impasse.
Notable Quote:
"Your blockade doesn't scare me," – Gustavo Petro ([00:33])
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Pushes for Special Legislative Session on Immigration
In the state of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis is convening a special legislative session in Tallahassee to align state laws with President Trump's immigration policies. NPR's Greg Allen provides an in-depth look into DeSantis's agenda.
DeSantis is advocating for several stringent measures, including:
- Mandatory Participation: Requiring counties and cities to engage in federal deportation programs.
- Authority to Suspend Officials: Granting DeSantis the power to suspend elected officials who fail to comply with these immigration mandates.
- Criminalizing Illegal Entry: Proposing legislation to make it a state crime to enter the U.S. illegally.
- Restricting Remittances: Introducing a requirement for individuals to disclose their identification and immigration status before sending money abroad, effectively barring those without legal status from making remittances to their home countries.
Notable Quote:
"Governor DeSantis is expecting lawmakers to support President Trump's immigration agenda," – Greg Allen, NPR ([01:36])
Israel Unblocks Northern Gaza as Ceasefire Holds Fragile Peace
[02:06] Kristen Wright transitions to the Middle East, focusing on the recent developments in Gaza. NPR's Kat Lahnsdorf reports from Tel Aviv on the Israeli military's decision to reopen roads leading north in Gaza, allowing Palestinians to return for the first time since the conflict began.
The return of Palestinians is a critical component of the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Initially slated to commence the previous day, the movement of people was contingent upon the release of a female civilian hostage by Hamas. After prolonged negotiations, it was confirmed that the hostage, along with two others, would be freed later in the week.
Early this morning, Israel activated a pedestrian corridor, followed by routes accommodating vehicles, buses, and even donkey carts. Kat Lahnsdorf notes the emotional scenes as thousands gather, hopeful yet anxious about the fate of their northern homes after enduring over a year of warfare and displacement.
Notable Quote:
"Thousands of people had gathered on the routes over the last few days, eager to see what might be left of their homes in the north after more than a year of war and displacement," – Kat Lahnsdorf, NPR ([02:29])
Belarus Declares Lukashenko as Election Winner Amid Western Condemnation
Shifting focus to Eastern Europe, Kristen Wright reports on the contentious presidential elections in Belarus. NPR's Charles Maynes in Moscow outlines how Alexander Lukashenko has been declared the official victor, securing nearly 87% of the vote according to the Belarus Central Election Commission.
Lukashenko, often referred to as Europe's last dictator, has maintained power since 1994. This latest election featured four opposition candidates, all perceived as "handpicked" by Lukashenko to ensure his continued rule. Genuine political challengers remained sidelined, either imprisoned or exiled, preventing any substantial contest to his authority.
The West has dismissed the election results as a sham, with significant evidence pointing to electoral manipulation and suppression of dissent. Reflecting on the tumultuous 2020 elections, where heavy protests nearly unseated him, Lukashenko pledged that this election would differ. Despite these assurances, his regime's survival hinges on a combination of brutal security crackdowns and unwavering support from the Kremlin.
Notable Quote:
"Lukashenko had vowed the election would not be a repeat of 2020... his regime ultimately survived thanks to a brutal crackdown by security forces and backing from the Kremlin," – Charles Maynes, NPR ([03:35])
U.S. Tax Filing Season Begins and Super Bowl AFC Championship Highlights
Concluding the news roundup, [04:17] Kristen Wright touches on the commencement of the U.S. tax filing season. The IRS has expanded its Direct File Free tax system based on a successful pilot program, now allowing taxpayers in 25 states to utilize this service, simplifying the process for millions.
In sports news, the AFC Championship game featured a thrilling matchup. The Kansas City Chiefs secured a place in the Super Bowl with a narrow victory over the Buffalo Bills with a score of 32-29, aiming for a three-peat title. Conversely, the Philadelphia Eagles dominated their game against the Washington Commanders, clinching a decisive win of 55-23, reflecting a less competitive contest.
Notable Quotes:
"The tax filing season opens today. The IRS has expanded its direct file free tax filing system," – Kristen Wright ([04:17])
"The Chiefs beat Buffalo 32-29. The Eagles beat the Commanders in the NFC. It was not a close game. Philly won 55 to 23," – Kristen Wright ([04:17])
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