NPR News Now: March 2, 2025, 1PM EST

Hosted by Nora Ramm

1. European Summit on Ending the Ukraine War

Location: London

The latest summit of European leaders aimed at concluding the protracted conflict in Ukraine concluded today in London. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the collective responsibility of European nations in securing a sustainable peace agreement.

• Keir Starmer highlighted the necessity for Europe to “do the heavy lifting to secure a lasting agreement” (00:24).

  Furthermore, Republican Congressman Mike Lawler of New York stressed the importance of empowering Ukraine to negotiate effectively, stating, “Our starting point must be to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position now so that they can negotiate from a position of strength, and we are doubling down in our support” (00:31).

Starmer also underscored the critical role of Ukraine in peace negotiations, asserting that “Ukraine must be at the table for any peace talks, and any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security” (00:47).

However, the recent Oval Office meeting between former President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky turned contentious, prompting criticism from within the Republican Party. Congressman Mike Lawler remarked, “No one at that Oval Office meeting left victorious” (01:08), while Luke Garrett lamented, “The only winner the other day was Vladimir Putin because this deal did not happen” (01:22).

Despite the fallout, Lawler remains optimistic about a proposed mineral deal that would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's critical raw materials in exchange for potential aid. He believes that “when there is a final agreement, it's going to be a lot harder for Vladimir Putin to renege on it and invade Ukraine again with US Investment on the ground” (01:27).

In contrast, House Speaker Mike Johnson defended Trump’s approach to the Oval Office meeting and suggested that Ukraine might benefit from new leadership, though Lawler notes he hasn’t faced backlash within the GOP for his stance (01:50).

2. Judicial Ruling Against Trump's Attempt to Dismantle Government Oversight

A significant legal battle unfolded in Washington, D.C., where a federal judge ruled that former President Donald Trump cannot terminate the head of a federal watchdog agency without cause.

• Judge Amy Berman Jackson blocked Trump from firing Hampton Dellinger, head of the Office of Special Counsel, stating that the act “would give the president... a constitutional license to bully officials in the executive branch into doing his will” (02:05).

The Trump administration has declared its intention to appeal the decision, potentially escalating the case to the Supreme Court. This ruling is part of a broader series of legal challenges aimed at curbing Trump’s efforts to exert greater control over independent governmental entities. The administration contends that reinstating Dellinger would infringe upon the president's authority to designate leadership within executive agencies.

Amy Held provided further insights, explaining that Dellinger's dismissal without explanation undermines the independence of agencies charged with protecting federal workers' rights. Trump’s ongoing attempts to centralize authority have led to numerous lawsuits, all navigating the complexities of the judicial system (02:14).

3. Pope Francis Hospitalized with Double Pneumonia

Pope Francis, the 88-year-old spiritual leader, has been hospitalized since February 14th due to respiratory complications that evolved into double pneumonia.

• Keir Starmer reported that the pope, unable to lead Sunday prayers for three consecutive weeks, expressed gratitude towards his medical team and well-wishers for their prayers (03:11).

Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis continues to inspire millions worldwide, showcasing resilience in the face of illness.

4. Brit Music Awards Highlights

The Brit Music Awards, held last night in London, were a night of triumphs and memorable moments. The event, humorously dubbed the “Brat Awards,” saw several notable artists taking home top honors.

• Charli XCX dominated the evening, securing five awards, including Best Album for her hit “Brat,” which has now become the slang term of the summer across the UK and the U.S. She commented on her success, “It's incredible to see 'Brat' resonate so widely and even inspire our everyday language” (03:37).

• Billie Eilish made history as the first non-British artist to be nominated for Best Song, thanks to her collaboration with Charli XCX on the single “Guess, You Wanna Guess.” Reflecting on the nomination, Eilish noted, “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside such talented British artists” (03:37).

Other notable winners included The Color of My Ezra Collective, Sam Fender, Stormzy, and The Last Dinner Party, who took home awards in categories like Best New Artist, further cementing their status in the music industry.

Vicki Barker, reporting from London, encapsulated the night’s vibe, stating, “They could have been called the Brat Awards,” highlighting the event’s lively and unconventional atmosphere (03:37).

5. Rescue of Rocky the Bear in Pakistan

In a heartwarming story from Pakistan, an international animal welfare organization successfully rescued Rocky, a seven-year-old black bear that had been exploited for fighting.

• Keir Starmer reported that Rocky was freed from eastern Pakistan, where he was previously kept in chains and forced into bear baiting and dancing—activities that, while illegal, persist in some regions (04:23).

A team from Four Paws, an international animal welfare group, intervened by cutting off Rocky’s chain and nosering, subsequently transporting him to Islamabad for medical care. This rescue underscores the ongoing efforts to combat animal cruelty and promote humane treatment across the globe.

Nora Ramm concluded the segment, emphasizing the significance of such rescues in improving animal welfare standards (04:50).

For those who missed today’s episode, NPR News Now provides the latest updates every five minutes, ensuring you stay informed with concise and comprehensive reporting.