NPR News Now: February 18, 2025, 3AM EST

NPR's "News Now" delivers a comprehensive update on the latest global and national events. This episode covers high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, aviation incidents, corporate restructuring, political scandals, extreme weather alerts, controversial judicial nominations, and law enforcement actions against extremist groups.

1. US-Russia Diplomatic Talks in Saudi Arabia

Host Giles Snyder opens the episode by reporting on the commencement of talks between top U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia. This marks the first in-person dialogue between the two nations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

• Key Points:
  • Absence of Ukraine and European Allies: Notably, neither Ukraine nor any European allies are part of these negotiations.
  • Ukraine’s Stance: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear, stating, “I will not recognize any agreements made without Ukraine at the table” (00:08).

This development signifies a potential shift in diplomatic efforts, although the exclusion of key stakeholders raises questions about the talks' efficacy and future implications.

2. Delta Airlines Crash at Pearson International Airport

A tragic incident unfolded at Pearson International Airport when a Delta Airlines jet flipped on its roof during landing. Deborah Flint, CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, commends first responders for preventing fatalities.

• Notable Quote:

  • Deborah Flint: “No airport CEO wants to have these types of press conferences, but this is exactly what our emergency operations and first responder partners are all practiced and trained for. And again, this outcome is in due part to their heroic work, and I thank them profusely” ([00:55]).

• Additional Details:

  • Injuries: 18 out of 80 passengers were hospitalized.
  • Investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is collaborating with Canadian counterparts to investigate the crash.

The swift and effective response by emergency teams was pivotal in mitigating the disaster's impact.

3. Southwest Airlines Announces Significant Layoffs

Caroline Love from NPR’s Dallas bureau reports on Southwest Airlines' decision to lay off 15% of its corporate workforce amid ongoing corporate restructuring.

• Key Details:

  • Impact: Over 1,700 employees affected.
  • CEO’s Statement: Robert Jordan described the layoffs as “a difficult and monumental decision” ([01:36]).
  • Reasons for Restructuring:
    • Declining profit margins.
    • A civil lawsuit concerning the alleged mismanagement of an employee retirement plan.
    • Recent board restructuring following a failed attempt by an investment firm to oust him.

• Future Changes:

  • Policy Revisions: The airline plans to end its open seating policy next year as part of efforts to boost revenue.
  • Support for Laid-off Employees: Eligible employees will receive salary and benefits through late April.

The layoffs reflect broader challenges within the aviation industry, including financial pressures and internal governance disputes.

4. New York Governor Considers Removing Mayor Amid Corruption Scandal

Bruce Kahnweiser provides an in-depth look at the political turmoil engulfing New York City's leadership. Governor Kathy Hochul is contemplating drastic measures to address the corruption scandal surrounding Mayor Eric Adams.

• Notable Developments:
  • Resignations: Four of the city’s eight deputy mayors have resigned from Adams' administration ([02:29]).
  • Prosecutorial Resignations: At least seven federal prosecutors in New York and Washington have stepped down rather than request a dismissal of the five-count indictment against Mayor Adams.
  • Governor’s Consideration: Hochul is exploring the possibility of removing Adams from office, a power granted by the New York state constitution. She noted that “in the state's 235-year history, no governor had ever taken such action” ([02:29]).

Mayor Adams remains defiant, pledging to fight the allegations. The situation underscores significant political instability and the potential for unprecedented executive intervention in city governance.

5. Extreme Cold Alerts and Deadly Flooding Across the United States

Giles Snyder alerts listeners to severe weather conditions currently impacting the nation.

• Extreme Cold Warnings:

  • Regions Affected: Rockies and Northern Plains, with temperatures in parts of North Dakota dropping to -60°F ([03:10]).
  • Extent: Warnings are in place across 11 states, stretching from Canada to Oklahoma and Central Texas.

• Recent Flooding:

  • Casualties: At least 14 people have died due to weekend floods, including 12 in Kentucky and one in West Virginia.
  • Connection: The extreme cold follows these deadly floods, highlighting the nation’s ongoing struggle with severe and contrasting weather events.

The White House has issued these warnings in response to the harsh winter conditions, emphasizing the need for preparedness amidst extreme weather volatility.

6. Controversial Nomination of Ed Martin as Top Federal Prosecutor in Washington, D.C.

Kerry Johnson reports on the White House’s nomination of political activist Ed Martin for the position of top federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C. Martin’s background has sparked significant scrutiny.

• Key Points:

  • Lack of Experience: Martin has no prior prosecutorial experience.
  • Controversial Actions: During his tenure as interim U.S. Attorney in D.C. four years ago, Martin was known for his “bombastic social media posts” where he vowed to investigate individuals who intimidated billionaire Elon Musk and his Dogecoin team.
  • Operational Changes: Martin has fired over two dozen prosecutors involved in Capitol riot cases and initiated a review of how the office applied obstruction statutes to January 6th defendants.

• Significance:

  • Office’s Reputation: The U.S. Attorney's Office in D.C. is one of the nation's largest, handling sensitive cases related to political corruption and national security.
  • Implications: Martin's appointment could reshape the office's approach to high-profile cases, raising concerns about potential shifts in prosecutorial priorities and methods.

Carrie Johnson from NPR News in Washington adds that Martin’s unapologetic style and controversial decisions may lead to significant changes within a critical legal institution.

7. Arrest of Cult Leader Linked to Border Patrol Agent’s Death

In a significant law enforcement action, authorities in Maryland have detained the apparent leader of a cult-like group known as the Zizians.

• Details:
  • Arrestee: 34-year-old Jack Lasota was apprehended alongside another group member ([04:27]).
  • Criminal Ties: Investigators allege that the Zizians are connected to the shooting death of a Border Patrol agent in Vermont last month and may be linked to five other deaths across three states.

The arrest underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle extremist groups and address their involvement in violent crimes.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates a broad spectrum of pressing issues, from high-level diplomatic negotiations and corporate upheavals to severe weather crises and significant legal and political developments. Notable quotes from key figures like President Zelensky and officials from the aviation and transportation sectors provide insight into the complexities and human elements behind these stories. Whether addressing international tensions, safeguarding public safety, or navigating political scandals, NPR delivers a thorough and engaging summary to keep listeners informed.