NPR News Now: March 12, 2025, 7AM EDT

NPR’s Korva Coleman presents a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in U.S. politics, international relations, economic policies, and significant incidents shaping the news landscape.

U.S. Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Take Effect Amid Global Trade Tensions

At the outset of the episode, Korva Coleman announces the enforcement of President Trump’s 25% tariffs on all U.S. imports of steel and aluminum. This strategic move targets key foreign suppliers, notably Canada, which accounts for approximately a quarter of the U.S.’s steel and half of its aluminum imports.

Scott Horsley elaborates on the economic ramifications at [00:29]:

“Foreign countries supply about a quarter of all the steel used in the US and about half of all the aluminum. Those imports are subject to a 25% tax, which could raise the price of everything from building materials to canned soda pop.”

Horsley highlights that while Trump initially considered doubling the tariffs on Canadian imports, he retracted after Ontario agreed to cease taxing electricity exports to the U.S. Nonetheless, the global response remains tense as other nations threaten retaliatory tariffs on American exports. This escalating trade war has adversely affected the stock market, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeting over 2,400 points since last week.

Government Spending Bill Advances to Senate Amid Shutdown Fears

Transitioning to domestic politics, Coleman reports that the House has successfully passed a government spending bill, ensuring federal operations continue through the fiscal year’s end. However, the bill now faces a critical hurdle in the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune underscores the necessity of bipartisan support at [01:45]:

“As you all know, it takes 60 votes in the Senate to pass an appropriations bill, so we're going to need some Democrats to vote for it.”

Despite the Republican majority in the Senate, overcoming a potential filibuster requires Democratic votes. The urgency is palpable, as failure to secure the bill could trigger a partial federal shutdown by late Friday night.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify: Ukraine Ceasefire and Middle East Negotiations

In international affairs, Coleman highlights significant diplomatic movements involving Ukraine and the Middle East.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announces Ukraine’s readiness for a 30-day ceasefire following intense negotiations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ([02:27]). He emphasizes the commitment to peace:

“And what we leave here with today is a commitment that the Ukrainians are ready to stop fighting. They're ready to stop the shooting so that they can get to the table and bring about peace for their country and for the world.” ([02:36])

This development comes after the Trump administration decided to resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Despite these positive strides, the Kremlin remains silent, awaiting further details of the talks.

Simultaneously, Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s Middle East envoy, is actively mediating a new ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and facilitating discussions between Israel and Lebanon ([03:10]). Daniel Estrin reports from Tel Aviv on the ongoing efforts to negotiate the release of hostages in Gaza, although significant progress remains elusive. Additionally, talks aim to resolve enduring border disputes and address the presence of Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, with Israel agreeing to release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture towards Lebanon’s new president.

U.S. Department of Education Announces Major Workforce Reduction

Turning to domestic administrative news, Coleman reveals that the U.S. Department of Education is undertaking a substantial workforce reduction, cutting its staff by nearly 50% ([03:10]). Affected employees will commence administrative leave starting March 21. This move aligns with President Trump’s long-standing objective to dismantle the Education Department, reflecting a broader agenda to streamline federal agencies.

Maritime Incident Off Britain’s East Coast Results in Arrest

In maritime news, British authorities have detained the captain of a cargo ship on suspicion of manslaughter following a collision with an oil tanker off Britain’s east coast ([03:50]). The tragic incident resulted in both vessels catching fire and an oil spill, with one crew member missing and presumed dead. This event underscores the persistent challenges of maritime safety and the severe consequences of navigational errors.

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