NPR News Now: March 23, 2025, 10 AM EDT

Immigration and Deportation Policies Under the Trump Administration

Giles Snyder opens the episode by addressing the ongoing debates surrounding the Trump administration's immigration policies. Tom Holman, the Trump administration's border czar, made headlines by stating that the White House will adhere to a judge's order blocking the use of the 18th-century Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members. Despite the legal challenges, Holman reiterated the administration's commitment to deportations based on existing laws.

Tom Holman (00:35): "I don't care what that judges think as far as this case. We're going to continue to arrest public safety threats and national security threats. We're going to continue to deport them to the United States... we're going to keep targeting the worst of the worst of the worst, which we've been doing since day one in deporting from the United States."

Holman's comments were made during an appearance on ABC's "This Week," where he acknowledged the ongoing litigation but emphasized the administration's resolve to pursue deportations of individuals deemed threats to public safety and national security. A court hearing related to this case is scheduled for the following day.

Pope Francis Returns to Vatican After Hospitalization

In a significant development for the Catholic Church, Ruth Sherlock reports that Pope Francis has been discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome after a 38-day battle with double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff made his first public appearance in over a month from the hospital balcony, marking a hopeful turn in his health.

Pope Francis (01:29): "I see this woman with the yellow flowers. Well done."

The Pope's appearance was met with emotional responses as he interacted with the public and acknowledged well-wishers. Doctors have advised that while his condition has improved, he will require two months of rest and rehabilitation. Despite ongoing challenges with his speech due to lung damage, medical professionals are optimistic about his recovery.

Russian Drone Attacks Intensify in Kyiv

Eleanor Beardsley details the severe impact of Russian drone attacks on Kyiv, reporting multiple casualties and widespread destruction. A substantial attack resulted in at least three deaths, including a young child, and left dozens injured as Ukrainian air defenses struggled to counter the relentless drone swarms.

Eleanor Beardsley (02:21): "Explosions filled the night sky over Kyiv for several hours as air defenses battled swarms of incoming drones."

The attacks caused significant fires and structural damages across the city. Notably, a nine-story building saw one death and the evacuation of 27 people after a fire spread to its roof. These nightly assaults have instilled widespread fear among Kyiv's residents. While President Vladimir Putin has halted attacks on energy infrastructure in discussions of a possible ceasefire, attacks on urban areas persist, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Additionally, Eleanor Beardsley reports that the Russian Defense Ministry claims to have intercepted nearly 60 Ukrainian drones overnight, indicating ongoing hostilities even as ceasefire negotiations loom in Saudi Arabia.

Wildfires Rage in the Carolinas

The Carolinas are grappling with severe wildfires, prompting emergency declarations and mandatory evacuations. Giles Snyder reports that South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency for the Table Rock fire in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Concurrently, a fire in western North Carolina has led to mandatory evacuations, especially impacting areas previously devastated by Hurricane Helene in September.

Political Shifts in Canada Amid U.S. Trade Tensions

In Canadian politics, Mark Carney, the newly appointed Prime Minister replacing Justin Trudeau, is anticipated to announce plans for a snap election. Giles Snyder highlights that Carney seeks a clear mandate for Canada's ruling Liberal Party amidst growing tensions with the United States, particularly President Trump's ongoing trade war and his provocative statements urging Canada to become the 51st state.

This political maneuvering comes as Canada navigates its position on the international stage, balancing domestic governance with international pressures from the U.S.

The Searchers Announce Retirement After 68-Year Career

Vicki Barker delivers a poignant report from London about the retirement of The Searchers, one of pop music's longest-running bands. After an illustrious 68-year career marked by hits like "Love Potion Number Nine," "Needles and Pins," and "Don't Throw Your Love Away," the band has decided to cease touring.

John McNally, Lead Guitarist (04:07): "We still find performing incredibly energizing, but increased traffic on the roads of 21st century Britain has made traveling between gigs just too stressful."

The Searchers' final performance is scheduled for the Glastonbury Festival this June, marking the end of an era for fans worldwide. Their departure underscores the challenges faced by aging musicians in maintaining the rigorous demands of touring in today's fast-paced world.

Conclusion

Giles Snyder wraps up the episode by reiterating the latest updates from Washington, ensuring listeners stay informed on critical national and international issues.

This summary captures the key discussions and insights from the NPR News Now episode aired on March 23, 2025. For full details, listeners are encouraged to tune into the podcast.