NPR News Now: February 13, 2025, 6 AM EST
Hosted by Korva Coleman
U.S. Foreign Policy: Trump’s Ukraine Strategy and Diplomatic Moves
President Trump's Diplomatic Maneuvers
President Donald Trump announced that he is dispatching Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Munich today. Rubio's mission includes attending meetings with U.S. allies and setting up discussions regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. This decision follows a significant 90-minute phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday about the conflict.
Key Quote:
- Korva Coleman [00:16]: "Trump says he's sending Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Munich today... to discuss the war in Ukraine."
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's Collaboration with the U.S.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude towards Trump for his interest in fostering U.S.-Ukraine cooperation. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to collaborate on technological advancements, including drone technology and resource cooperation. He also highlighted the belief that America's strength, in partnership with global allies, is pivotal in pushing Russia towards peace.
Key Quotes:
- Joanna Kakisis [00:39]: "Zelensky said, we believe that America's strength is enough to push Russia and Putin to peace together with us, together with all our partners."
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth [01:25]: "Ukraine should not expect NATO membership or the return of Russian-occupied territories."
Potential Meeting Between Trump and Putin in Saudi Arabia
Trump indicated the possibility of meeting Putin in Saudi Arabia, though he did not specify a date for this meeting.
Key Quote:
- Korva Coleman [01:25]: "Trump also says he'll meet Putin likely in Saudi Arabia. Trump didn't say when."
Federal Workforce Restructuring: Deferred Resignation Offers
Deferred Resignation Program Affirmed by Federal Judge
The Trump administration has initiated a program offering federal employees the option to resign voluntarily in exchange for continued pay and benefits until the end of September. This move is part of President Trump's strategy to downsize the federal workforce. Labor unions representing civil servants challenged the program, labeling it unlawful. However, U.S. District Judge George O'Toole denied the request to block the program, stating that the unions lacked the standing to be directly affected by the decision.
Key Quotes:
- Andrea Hsu [01:42]: "A federal judge has declined to block the Trump administration's deferred resignation offers to federal employees."
- Andrea Hsu [01:42]: "He did not rule on the legality of the deferred resignation program."
Union Response: The unions have described the ruling as a setback but remain determined to continue their fight against the administration's efforts.
Senate Confirmations: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Confirmation as Health and Human Services Secretary
The Senate is set to vote today on the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the position of Health and Human Services Secretary. Kennedy has garnered opposition from Democrats due to his stance against vaccines, yet he has advanced past procedural votes despite this resistance.
Tulsi Gabbard’s Appointment as Director of National Intelligence
Former Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has been sworn in as the new Director of National Intelligence. Her confirmation was primarily along party lines, with significant opposition from Senator Mitch McConnell, the sole Republican voting against her. Gabbard outlined her objectives to refocus the intelligence community by empowering patriots and ensuring the safety, security, and freedom of the American people.
Key Quotes:
- Tulsi Gabbard [02:45]: "Refocus our intelligence community by empowering the great patriots who have chosen to serve our country in this way and focus on ensuring the safety, security and freedom of the American people."
- Senator Mitch McConnell [02:57]: Criticized Gabbard saying she "isn't prepared for the job and has shown... a history of alarming lapses in judgment."
International Affairs: Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Update
Ceasefire Progress Between Israel and Hamas
After days of uncertainty, the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas appears to be stabilizing. Hamas had previously announced a delay in releasing three Israeli hostages, citing Israel's violation of the ceasefire terms. Israel responded with a warning that hostilities in Gaza could resume if the ceasefire conditions are not adhered to.
Weather Alert: Cold Front and Severe Storms Across the U.S.
Cold Weather Sweeps the Plains
A significant cold front is impacting the Plains, with wind chill temperatures dropping below zero as far south as Oklahoma City.
Severe Storms Warning
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for a line of heavy storms extending from the Florida Panhandle to southern Virginia. Additionally, flood watches are in effect from Arkansas to Ohio, indicating potential severe weather conditions that could lead to flooding.
Business News: Duolingo Retires Its Beloved Mascot
End of an Era for Duo the Owl
Duolingo, the popular language learning app, announced the retirement of its iconic cartoon owl mascot, Duo. The company revealed this change through a series of social media posts featuring disturbing images of Duo with crossed eyes and a hanging tongue, culminating in a video depicting the owl being struck by a Tesla Cybertruck and ascending past hell’s gates.
Marketing Campaign Explanation
Duolingo clarified that Duo’s demise is part of a broader marketing campaign and not indicative of a rebranding effort. The company described Duo’s retirement as having been a "hoot" since its inception in 2011, indicating a playful approach to the change.
Key Quote:
- Chloe Veltman [04:05]: "It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mascot, Duo the owl."
Conclusion
Today's episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of significant developments in U.S. politics, international affairs, federal workforce changes, severe weather alerts, and notable business news. From President Trump's diplomatic strategies concerning Ukraine and potential meetings with Putin, to the Senate's confirmation of key governmental positions, the episode encapsulates the dynamic landscape of current events. Additionally, updates on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and severe weather conditions underscore the ongoing global and domestic challenges. Finally, Duolingo's creative marketing move marks a notable shift in the business sphere.
For more detailed information, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode of NPR News Now.