NPR News Now – Episode Summary

Podcast: NPR News Now
Host: Giles Snyder
Episode: 02-18-2026 12AM EST
Date: February 18, 2026
Duration: 5 minutes

Overview

This episode provides a brisk, comprehensive update on significant global and national news stories from around midnight EST on February 18, 2026. Covered topics include tensions in the Persian Gulf, a new investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s New Mexico ranch, a tragic shooting in Rhode Island, updates from the Winter Olympics, a security incident at the US Capitol, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and new political upheaval in Peru.

Key Stories & Discussion Points

1. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran Nuclear Talks

[00:15 - 01:16]

• Iran's Military Exercise: Iran temporarily closed parts of the Strait of Hormuz for a live-fire naval drill, coinciding with resumed Geneva talks over its nuclear program.
• Diplomatic Progress and Warning: Iran’s foreign minister is optimistic about US discussions, indicating progress but warns:

  “The consequences of any attack against Iran will not be confined to its borders.” (Giles Snyder quoting Iranian foreign minister, 00:46)

• Upcoming Negotiations: Another round of negotiations is planned for two weeks later.

2. Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch Investigation

[01:16 - 02:03]

• New Mexico’s Investigation: An official probe is underway into alleged illegal activity at Epstein’s former Zorro Ranch.
• Congresswoman’s Point of View:

  “The investigation is focused on uncovering the full picture of what happened at the ranch and, quote, why the justice system has failed survivors.” (Daniel Montano quoting Rep. Melanie Stansberry, 01:26)

• Reviewing FBI Actions:

  “[It's] very clear having viewed the unredacted files... that the US Government has failed to do what New Mexico is embarking to do right now.” (Giles Snyder, 01:36)

• Commission Composition: Bipartisan state lawmakers will examine whether local and state officers acted appropriately and if legislative action is needed for future protection.

3. Shooting at Rhode Island Youth Hockey Game

[02:03 - 02:32]

• Incident Details: A vigil was held in Pawtucket after a deadly shooting at a youth hockey game. The gunman killed his former wife and son, injured three others (ex-wife’s parents and a family friend), and then died by suicide.
• Community Impact: The event brings to light ongoing issues with gun violence and prompts collective mourning.

4. Winter Olympics—Mikaela Shiffrin’s Medal Pursuit

[02:32 - 03:14]

• Shiffrin’s Pressure and Hope: The ski star prepares for her best event—the slalom—in Italy, seeking her first medal since 2018.

  “Pressure can exist, but pressure is a privilege and I'm grateful for that.” (Mikaela Shiffrin, 02:38)

• Performance Recap: Shiffrin finished fourth in the combined event; her Olympic medal drought continues since 2018.
• Career Highlights: Two golds, one silver—hopes remain for a podium finish in the final event.

5. Security Incident at the US Capitol

[03:14 - 03:49]

• Arrest of Georgia Teen: US Capitol Police arrest an armed 18-year-old wearing tactical gear who ran toward the Capitol; vehicle found with a Kevlar helmet and gas masks.
• No injuries or further incidents reported.

6. Ukraine War—Global Attention and Stakes

[03:49 - 04:37]

• Diminishing Focus: As the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion nears, Ukrainians sense the world’s attention is shifting to other conflicts (e.g., Sudan, Gaza).
• Human Rights Perspective:

  “But this is not just a war between two states. This is a war between two systems.” (Oleksandr Matvetchuk via Giles Snyder, 04:03)

• Stakes Framed:

  “Authoritarianism and democracy that will remake the world order.” (Eleanor Beardsley, 04:08)

• Potential Precedent: If Russia prevails, it threatens global norms:

  “Putin attempts to convince that a country with a strong military potential, a nuclear weapon, can break international order.” (Giles Snyder, 04:12)

7. Political Turmoil in Peru

[04:37 - 04:57]

• President Removed: Peru’s interim president, Jose Harry, is ousted by Congress over corruption allegations, making him the third consecutive Peruvian leader removed from office in quick succession.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “The consequences of any attack against Iran will not be confined to its borders.” (Iran’s foreign minister, via Giles Snyder, 00:46)
• “The investigation is focused on ... why the justice system has failed survivors.” (Rep. Melanie Stansberry via Daniel Montano, 01:26)
• “Pressure can exist, but pressure is a privilege and I'm grateful for that.” (Mikaela Shiffrin, 02:38)
• “But this is not just a war between two states. This is a war between two systems.” (Oleksandr Matvetchuk via Giles Snyder, 04:03)
• “We're ordinary people ... at the epicenter of an event that will shape the future of the world.” (Matvechuk via Eleanor Beardsley, 04:30)

Timeline of Major Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |-----------|----------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:15 | Iran’s Strait of Hormuz closure and nuclear talks in Geneva | | 01:16 | New Mexico investigates Epstein’s Zorro Ranch | | 02:03 | Pawtucket hockey game shooting and community vigil | | 02:32 | Mikaela Shiffrin at the Winter Olympics | | 03:14 | Armed man arrested at US Capitol | | 03:49 | Ukraine war anniversary and its broader implications | | 04:37 | Peruvian interim president’s ouster |

This episode offers a fast-paced, essential roundup of international affairs, major US security incidents, Olympic hopes, and persistent themes of accountability, democracy, and public safety.