NPR News Now: 02-18-2026 5AM EST

Host: Dave Mattingly
Date: February 18, 2026

Main Theme

This episode brings listeners up to date on the most significant national and international news, featuring developments in the Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations, domestic security incidents, immigration policy changes in Maryland, Olympic hockey updates, a dramatic search-and-rescue operation in California's mountains, and the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie.

Key Stories and Insights

1. Russia-Ukraine Peace Negotiations in Geneva

• Timestamps: 00:16–01:05
• The US is mediating ongoing peace talks in Geneva aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, which is nearing its four-year anniversary.
• President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, stated there was sufficient progress on the first day for talks to continue.
• President Trump has set a public goal for a peace agreement by June.
• Insight: While no major breakthroughs are anticipated, the extension of talks signals hope for diplomatic progress.
• Quote:

  “Trump said recently he wants to see an agreement between Moscow and Kyiv by June. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine is nearing the four year mark.” — Dave Mattingly (00:38)

2. Security Incident at the U.S. Capitol

• Timestamps: 01:05–01:51
• An 18-year-old man from Georgia was arrested outside the U.S. Capitol after being seen running towards the building in tactical gear and carrying a shotgun.
• Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan described the suspect’s appearance and the prompt police response.
• The suspect complied with police commands and was arrested without violence. His motive remains unknown.
• Context: The incident comes amid heightened security and concerns about lawmaker safety since January 6, 2021.
• Notable Quote:

  “He exited the vehicle with a shotgun and began running towards the Capitol up the walkway just behind me. And as he approached the Capitol, Capitol police officers observed this individual, challenged him and ordered him to drop the weapon and get on the ground, which he did comply with.” — Chief Michael Sullivan (01:17)

3. Maryland Bans Cooperation with ICE

• Timestamps: 01:51–02:56
• Governor Wes Moore signed legislation that halts local law enforcement cooperation with ICE through 287(g) agreements in nine Maryland jurisdictions.
• These agreements previously enabled local officers to detain noncitizens for transfer to ICE or issue administrative warrants.
• Moore criticized ICE agents as “untrained, unqualified and unaccountable,” but reaffirmed Maryland’s commitment to deporting those who threaten public safety.
• Notable Quote:

  “The state will no longer allow its local law enforcement to be deputized by federal agents.” — Sarah Petrowich summarizing Governor Moore (02:28)

4. Winter Olympics Hockey Updates

• Timestamps: 02:56–03:32
• The U.S. Men's hockey team prepares to face Sweden in the quarterfinals.
• The U.S. Women’s team is set to compete against Canada in the gold medal game.
• This segment signals continued U.S. competitiveness and public interest in the Olympics.

5. Avalanche Rescue Operation in California

• Timestamps: 03:32–04:06
• Six skiers were rescued after an avalanche northwest of Lake Tahoe, but nine remain missing.
• The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued a warning for the area due to severe storm conditions.
• Ongoing heavy snowfall (2–4 inches per hour) is complicating rescue efforts.
• Notable Quote:

  “The storm is ongoing. You know, it's still snowing anywhere from 2 to 4 inches an hour right now, and that avalanche path is reloading with new snow very rapidly.” — Brian Schwartz, Lead Forecaster (03:44)

6. Powerful Winter Storm Hits California

• Timestamps: 04:06–04:18
• Much of California is experiencing severe winter weather, with forecasts predicting up to eight feet of snow at higher elevations.
• The storm is affecting transportation, safety, and ongoing rescue operations.

7. Update on Missing Person Case: Nancy Guthrie

• Timestamps: 04:18–04:55
• DNA testing on a glove found near Nancy Guthrie’s home did not match anyone in national criminal databases.
• Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC’s Savannah Guthrie, has been missing for more than two weeks.
• Surveillance footage recorded a masked, gloved individual with a backpack near her home before her disappearance.
• Insight: The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement still seeking new leads.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• On Capitol Security Threats:

  “Security has tightened on Capitol grounds since the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. The incident comes as lawmakers face increasing harassment and threats of violence.” — Sam Greenglass (01:34)

• Immigration Policy in Maryland:

  “Moore called ICE agents, quote, untrained, unqualified and unaccountable, saying the state will no longer allow its local law enforcement to be deputized by federal agents.” — Sarah Petrowich (02:29)

• Avalanche Rescue:

  “That avalanche path is reloading with new snow very rapidly.” — Brian Schwartz (03:48)

Timeline of Key Segments

| Timestamp | Topic | |-----------|--------------------------------------------| | 00:16 | Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations | | 01:05 | Capitol security incident | | 01:51 | Maryland bans ICE partnerships | | 02:56 | Winter Olympics hockey updates | | 03:32 | Avalanche rescue in California | | 04:06 | California winter storm | | 04:18 | Nancy Guthrie missing persons case |

This episode encapsulates a day of urgent national and world news, highlighting the gravity of security and humanitarian concerns alongside routine but meaningful updates on sports and weather. The tone is factual, measured, and informative—reflecting NPR's concise approach to timely reporting.