NPR News Now – February 18, 2025
Released on February 18, 2025
Diplomatic Efforts to End the War in Ukraine
In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently in Saudi Arabia engaging in high-level talks with Russian officials aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to Giles Snyder ([00:01]), these critical discussions are scheduled to commence imminently. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly stated that he was unaware of these negotiations and clarified that Ukraine is not a party to them.
Speaking via video link from Abu Dhabi, Zelensky emphasized the necessity of Ukraine's involvement in any peace talks. He remarked, “Ukraine feels any negotiations that do not involve Ukraine will have no results and that Ukrainians cannot recognize those agreements” ([00:28]). Zelensky also advocated for European nations to be included at the negotiating table, a suggestion that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has dismissed. Despite these tensions, Zelensky plans to visit Saudi Arabia later in the week to further discuss Ukraine's role in the peace process.
Protests Against Government Actions in the United States
On President’s Day, thousands across the United States mobilized to protest against recent actions taken by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. NPR’s Chantaly Stuster reported from Washington D.C., where demonstrators braved frigid temperatures and strong winds, gathering at the Capitol Reflecting Pool. The protestors vocally demanded that lawmakers address the issue of mass firings within governmental agencies, chanting “do your job” ([01:25]).
One poignant testimony came from a Maryland resident, Suzanne, who spoke anonymously due to fear of retaliation against her family. She expressed deep concern for her husband, a federal employee in a financial regulatory agency, stating, “Currently, his paychecks are going through, but we're looking to Plan Bs and alternatives on how to support our family, our children” ([01:54]). These protests are part of the 50:51 movement, symbolizing “50 protests, 50 states, one movement,” aiming to unify citizens across the nation in their demand for governmental accountability ([02:02]).
Devastating Flooding in Kentucky and West Virginia
Kentucky is grappling with severe flooding, resulting in a rising death toll. Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that at least 12 individuals have lost their lives due to the heavy rainfall over the weekend ([02:12]). Justin Hick from Kentucky Public Radio highlighted that western Kentucky received an unprecedented seven inches of rain in just one day, leading to catastrophic flash flooding. Suzanne explained, “Western Kentucky got the most rain, so it's a little bit flatter, but it got 7 inches of rain in just a day, which is just a ton of rain. The most lasting damage is actually in the mountains of eastern Kentucky… Flash flooding happens when the water races down mountains” ([02:26]).
In neighboring West Virginia, one death has been confirmed, and several people remain missing. Governor Patrick Morrissey has formally requested that President Trump issue a disaster declaration to facilitate emergency response and aid ([02:48]). The rapid influx of water, exacerbated by the region's topography, has made rescue and recovery efforts particularly challenging.
Ongoing Tensions Between Israel and Hezbollah
Israel has announced its decision to retain a limited number of troops in southern Lebanon beyond the deadline stipulated by a recent ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. The Israeli military has clarified that the forces will remain in five strategic locations adjacent to northern Israeli communities, describing this as a temporary measure approved by the U.S.-led body overseeing the truce ([02:48]).
Lebanon’s government has expressed significant frustration with Israel’s continued military presence, and Hezbollah's leader has strongly condemned the move, asserting that Israel lacks legitimate grounds for maintaining its troops in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah is urging the Lebanese state to compel Israel to withdraw, escalating regional tensions. Additionally, discussions pertaining to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire remain stalled, with no talks initiated as of this report ([02:48]).
Global Crisis: 60% of the World Lacks Access to High-Quality Medical Oxygen
A groundbreaking report reveals a dire shortage of medical oxygen affecting approximately 5 billion people worldwide—about 60% of the global population. NPR’s Gabrielle Emanuel reports that this scarcity impairs the treatment of various medical conditions, including premature births, heart failure, asthma, and pneumonia. The deficit is most pronounced in low and middle-income countries, leading to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year and significantly diminishing the quality of life for millions more ([03:55]).
The report underscores that addressing the medical oxygen shortfall would require an investment of nearly $7 billion annually. Despite the hefty price tag, experts argue that the investment is highly cost-effective, comparable to the costs of childhood vaccinations, and essential for pandemic preparedness. Implementing robust medical oxygen infrastructure is crucial not only for saving lives but also for enhancing global health resilience against future health crises ([03:55]).
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the NPR News Now episode released on February 18, 2025. It provides a detailed overview of international diplomatic efforts, domestic protests, natural disasters, Middle Eastern tensions, and a critical global health issue, complete with notable quotes and proper attributions to facilitate a clear understanding for those who have not listened to the episode.