NPR News Now: March 12, 2025 Edition – Detailed Summary

Release Date: March 12, 2025 | Host: Giles Snyder

1. Escalation in U.S.-Europe Trade War

Key Developments: President Donald Trump officially enacted a 25% tariff on all imported steel and aluminum at midnight Eastern Time, marking a significant escalation in his administration's trade war strategy.

European Retaliation: In response, the European Commission announced plans to impose countertariffs on $28 billion worth of American products starting next month.

Notable Quote: Giles Snyder reported at 00:11:

"The tariffs have drawn swift retaliation from Europe."

Implications: This tit-for-tat measure underscores the growing tensions between the U.S. and Europe, potentially impacting global trade dynamics and economic relations.

2. U.S.-Canada Trade Tensions and Temporary Resolutions

Tariff Threats and Concessions: President Trump had threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports, citing economic pressures. However, this decision was retracted after Ontario Premier Doug Ford agreed to suspend a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to U.S. states such as New York, Michigan, and Minnesota.

Notable Quote: Jackie Northam reported at 01:04:

"Ford issued a statement saying he was suspending tariffs on Ontario electricity after a meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick."

Market Reaction: The announcement initially caused stock markets to tumble, reflecting investor concern over the potential for an escalating trade conflict.

Further Developments: Trump later confirmed he would reverse his decision to double the metal tariffs, signaling a strategic retreat aimed at stabilizing trade relations and financial markets.

3. Proposed Restrictions on Healthcare Access for DACA Recipients

CMS Policy Changes: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is proposing to limit access to Obamacare plans by excluding DACA-protected individuals from qualifying for government health insurance.

Background: The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was established to aid individuals brought to the U.S. as children without legal status. Under the Biden administration, DACA recipients were classified as "lawfully present," granting them eligibility for the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid.

Notable Quote: Jimena Bustillo reported at 01:56:

"The Trump administration hopes to undo a Biden era move of counting DACA recipients as 'lawfully present,' which means that they get access to Affordable Care Act and Medicaid coverage."

Legal and Social Impact: Nineteen states have initiated lawsuits to block this proposed rule change. The rollback could significantly reduce healthcare access for DACA recipients, though the finalization of these rules may take several months.

4. U.S. Diplomatic Efforts Toward Ceasefire in Ukraine

Secretary Rubio’s Statement: Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the initiative for a ceasefire in Ukraine now rests with Russia. Speaking from Saudi Arabia after discussions with Ukrainian officials, Rubio expressed optimism for a peaceful resolution.

Notable Quote: Rubio stated at 02:35:

"Our hope is that the Russians will say yes, that they will also agree. So the shooting will stop, the killing will stop, the dying will stop, and the talks can begin about how to end this war permanently in a way that's acceptable and enduring for both sides."

Ukrainian Position and U.S. Support: Ukraine has shown willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire as part of broader peace talks. Concurrently, the Trump administration has lifted its suspension on military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, signaling continued support.

5. U.S. House Passes Stopgap Funding Bill Amid Shutdown Fears

Legislative Action: The Republican-led House successfully passed a stopgap funding bill with a narrow 217-213 vote, primarily along party lines. This bill is crucial to prevent a partial government shutdown scheduled for Friday night.

Next Steps: The bill now awaits Senate approval and President Trump’s signature to become law.

Impact of Potential Shutdown: Failure to pass the funding bill could lead to federal agencies scaling back operations, affecting various government services and employees.

6. Proposed Safety Measures Following D.C. Airport Helicopter Collision

Incident Overview: A tragic collision between a helicopter and a passenger jet at Washington D.C. airport in January resulted in the deaths of 67 people. This incident has raised serious concerns about current aviation safety practices.

NTSB’s Response: National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized existing protocols, emphasizing the need for immediate changes to prevent future tragedies.

Notable Quote: Giles Snyder conveyed at 02:54:

"She expressed anger that it took a collision that killed 67 people for it to come to light."

Proposed Changes: Federal investigators recommend implementing a ban on certain helicopter flights at the affected airport until new safety measures are established.

7. Negligence Trial of Healthcare Professionals in Diego Maradona’s Death

Trial Commencement: In Argentina, the trial of seven healthcare professionals involved in the care of the late soccer legend Diego Maradona began on Tuesday. The defendants face negligence charges related to his death.

Defendants: The accused include Maradona’s neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, and several nurses. An additional nurse is scheduled to be tried separately by a jury.

Notable Quote: Carrie Kahn reported at 04:09:

"Maradona's neurosurgeon, who was also his personal physician for many years, had removed a blood clot from the soccer star's brain just weeks before he suffered a heart attack and died in 2010."

Prosecutorial Claims: Prosecutors allege that the medical staff were reckless for allowing Maradona to remain at home following his surgery, contributing to his untimely death at age 60.

Trial Details: The proceedings are expected to last up to four months, with the defendants facing potential sentences of up to 25 years in prison if convicted. The trial has garnered significant public attention, with many relatives and fans present.

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and developments presented in the March 12, 2025 episode of NPR News Now, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and readers alike.