NPR News Now: March 1, 2025, 6PM EST – Detailed Summary

Released on March 1, 2025

Welcoming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the United Kingdom

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Key Speakers:

• Keir Starmer, British Prime Minister
• Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended a warm welcome to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to London, amidst enthusiastic cheers from the public.

• Keir Starmer expressed solidarity by stating, “[You are] very, very welcome here in Downing Street. And as you heard from the cheers on the street outside, you have full backing across the United Kingdom.” (00:30)

President Zelenskyy echoed his gratitude, saying, “I saw a lot of people and I want to thank you people of the United Kingdom. Such big support from the very beginning of this war. Thank you, your team.” (00:47)

Despite the cordial reception, the meeting diverged sharply from Zelenskyy’s earlier unsuccessful talks with former President Trump at the White House. The primary agenda was to finalize a deal granting the UK access to Ukraine's rare mineral rights. However, the deal remained unsigned, necessitating European nations to formulate alternative support strategies for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. An upcoming summit of European leaders is scheduled for the following day to address this issue.

Controversial Emails Prompt Concerns Among Federal Employees

Reporter: Amy Hilt

Federal employees have begun receiving a second round of emails from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), requesting them to outline five accomplishments from the past week. This follows an initial request sent the previous week, which saw approximately half a million federal workers fail to respond.

The White House initially mandated that non-responses to the email would be interpreted as resignations. However, OPM later clarified that responses were voluntary. Despite this clarification, many federal workers remain apprehensive, fearing that their submissions might be used as grounds for termination. This anxiety is exacerbated by the Trump administration’s prior actions, which included firing thousands of federal employees as part of a campaign to reduce government bureaucracy.

Labor unions and advocacy groups have filed lawsuits against these measures, arguing that they violate federal laws protecting employee rights. The contentious nature of these emails underscores the ongoing tension between federal workforce management and employee security.

Hamas Declines Israeli Proposal to Extend Gaza Ceasefire

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Hadil Al Shulki

The fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel is under significant strain as Hamas has declined an Israeli proposal to extend the initial phase of the ceasefire through the month of Ramadan, which commenced today.

• Hadil Al Shulki reports that the first phase of the ceasefire is set to expire today, coinciding with Hamas’s refusal to agree to an extension. Israel's primary objective in the proposed extension was to secure the release of additional hostages held by Hamas. Despite ongoing negotiations for a second phase, which would require a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and a definitive commitment to end hostilities, the ceasefire remains precarious.

Since the onset of the ceasefire on January 19th, Hamas has released 33 Israeli hostages, including eight who were deceased, in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees currently held in Israeli prisons. The continuation of peace talks remains uncertain as both parties navigate their respective demands and conditions.

Academy Awards: Ten Films Compete for Best Picture

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Mandalit del Barco

The upcoming Academy Awards will feature ten films contending for the prestigious Best Picture award. Audiences can tune in to ABC and Hulu to witness the outcome.

Mandalit del Barco highlights the diverse range of nominees:

• "Honora" – Starring Mikey Madison as a Brooklyn sex worker who marries the son of a Russian oligarch.
• "The Brutalist" – Featuring Adrien Brody as a Jewish Hungarian architect.
• "Conclave" – An ensemble cast portrays cardinals electing a new pope.
• "I'm Still Here" – A Brazilian film set during the 1970s military dictatorship.
• "The Substance" – A body horror film starring Demi Moore.
• "Complete Unknown" – Timothee Chalamet portrays Bob Dylan.
• "Dune Part 2" – Directed by Denis Villeneuve.
• "Nickel Boys" – Depicting a brutal reform school.
• "Emilia Betis" – Centers on a Mexican drug lord.
• "Wicked" – Featuring performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.

These nominees represent a wide array of genres and narratives, showcasing the dynamic landscape of contemporary cinema.

Pope Francis Remains Hospitalized in Rome

Host: Jeanine Herbst

The Vatican has issued an update regarding Pope Francis, who remains hospitalized in Rome under stable conditions. The 88-year-old pontiff is receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy for the second consecutive day following a bronchospasm attack the previous day.

Officials report that Pope Francis continues to be alert and oriented, experienced a restful night, and is maintaining his diet. His hospitalization, which began two weeks ago due to respiratory complications leading to double pneumonia, continues to be a matter of concern, with his long-term prognosis remaining uncertain.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, introductions, outros, and non-content segments to focus solely on the substantive news covered in the episode.