NPR News Now: February 28, 2025, 2 PM EST

Live from Washington, NPR News Now brings you a comprehensive summary of today’s top stories, covering international tensions, domestic political battles, public health concerns, and a notable celebrity tragedy.

Ukrainian President Zelensky’s Heated Exchange with President Trump

Timestamp: [00:13]

In a tense meeting at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former President Donald Trump engaged in a heated exchange that has cast uncertainty on the prospects of ending Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The confrontation, which unfolded in the presence of the press, escalated into a shouting match, raising questions about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations.

Notable Quotes:

• Volodymyr Zelensky: Addressed Trump’s accusations by stating, “Trump accused Zelensky of being disrespectful and unthankful for the support the United States has given.” [00:36]

• Donald Trump: Responded sharply, “You’re not in a good position. You don’t have the cards right now with us, you start having cards. I’m not playing cards right now. You don’t have your playing cards. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III.” [00:41]

Following the meeting, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to comment on the encounter. He stated, “We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion.” [01:16] However, he concluded by asserting, “I have determined that President Zelensky is not ready for peace if America is involved,” emphasizing his desire for peace without U.S. involvement.

NPR’s Asma Khalid reports that the Trump administration is seeking a ceasefire and a deal that would grant the U.S. access to critical minerals in Ukraine, a proposal that Zelensky has been pushing past security guarantees.

Bipartisan Stalemate in Congressional Budget Talks

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Congressional leaders from both parties remain at an impasse as negotiations over a year-long budget plan face new challenges. Republicans argue that Democrats are introducing "outrageous demands" to extend government operations beyond the March 14 deadline, complicating efforts to avoid a shutdown.

Notable Insights:

• Claudia Gonzalez, NPR News: Highlights that Senate appropriators are advocating for a short-term funding bill to extend negotiations, while President Trump and some Republicans push for a stopgap plan lasting a full year. Democrats, on the other hand, seek a permanent year-long spending agreement aimed at limiting Trump’s attempts to dismantle federal programs and protecting entitlement funding such as Medicaid.

• House Leader Hakeem Jeffries: Although not explicitly stated, there is an undercurrent of uncertainty as Jeffries has not committed to forcing a government shutdown, even though some Democrats view it as their only leverage in the negotiations.

The ongoing deadlock underscores the deep divisions within Congress, making the passage of a comprehensive budget increasingly uncertain. [02:00]

Rising Concerns Over Measles Outbreak

Timestamp: [02:48]

Public health officials are on high alert as concerns about a potential measles outbreak grow. The situation escalated a day after Washington state confirmed a new case in New Jersey.

Key Details:

• Dr. Caitlin Bastin, State Health Commissioner: Confirmed that an unvaccinated child who had traveled internationally contracted measles, subsequently infecting two unvaccinated family members. [02:48]

Additional cases have been reported in New Mexico and West Texas, raising alarms about the spread of the highly contagious virus. Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of vaccination to prevent further transmission.

Controversy Over Transportation Funding Priorities

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The Trump administration’s recent directive to prioritize transportation funding for communities with high marriage and birth rates has sparked debate among social conservatives and transportation experts alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Kim Meyer, Southern Environmental Law Center: Criticized the new funding criteria, stating, “Potentially a religious choice that has absolutely nothing to do with whether you need to get around work and to the store and take your kid to school.” [03:51]

While social conservatives applaud the initiative for supporting economic development and strengthening American families, critics argue that factors like marriage rates are cultural choices that should not influence federal funding allocations. Additionally, transportation experts express concerns that many Democratic-run cities with lower birth rates might face reduced funding, potentially hampering their infrastructure projects. [04:03]

Steve Harrison, WFAE: Provides further insight into the debate, highlighting the tension between different political ideologies regarding the allocation of federal transportation funds. [03:27]

Tragic Deaths of Gene Hackman and His Wife Investigated

Timestamp: [04:13]

In a somber development, authorities in New Mexico are investigating the deaths of acclaimed actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arikaro. The couple, both aged 95, were found deceased in their Santa Fe home, and investigators are awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death.

Key Facts:

• Discovery of Bodies: A 911 call captured a maintenance worker’s alarmed voice, stating, “I think we just found two, one deceased person inside a house. What’s that? Just here?” [04:34]

• Locations Found: Gene Hackman was discovered in the entryway of their home, while Betsy Arikaro was found in the bathroom. [04:41]

The Santa Fe county sheriff has indicated that there are no signs of foul play at this time, but the community remains in mourning as more details emerge. [04:13]

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