NPR News Now: April 10, 2025

Hosted by NPR, this episode of NPR News Now provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in U.S. politics, international relations, economic updates, and cultural milestones. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed.

1. President Trump's Temporary Pause on Global Tariffs

[00:16] Shea Stevens

President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on his global tariffs, a move aimed at fostering discussions for new trade deals following indications from multiple nations willing to negotiate. This decision averted potential heavy losses in global stock markets, signaling a tactical pause rather than a complete rollback of the trade war strategy.

Mar Liasson elaborates on the specifics: [00:39] Mar Liasson

• The temporary reprieve excludes China, where tariffs remain significantly higher at 125% due to China's retaliatory measures against the initial tariffs imposed by the U.S.
• For other countries under the previous 10% across-the-board tariff, the pause opens the door for a series of negotiations over the next three months.
• The exact objectives of the negotiations remain unclear, with possibilities ranging from securing concessions to addressing trade imbalances globally. Liasson notes, "Maybe concessions, even small ones that he can call victories," highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the administration's long-term tariff goals.

2. House Republicans Postpone Vote on Trump’s Domestic Agenda

[01:21] Shea Stevens

House Republicans have delayed a crucial vote on a multi-trillion dollar framework intended to advance President Trump's domestic policies. This postponement stems from internal opposition within the Republican conference.

Barbara Sprunt provides further details: [01:37] Barbara Sprunt

• House Speaker Mike Johnson announced the delay after extended closed-door meetings with over a dozen members.
• The primary contention revolves around the Senate amendment, which critics argue does not adequately address the national deficit.
• Despite Trump's direct pressure for a swift passage, conservative members have resisted, citing concerns over fiscal responsibility.
• Sprunt emphasizes, "The delay is the latest in a series of setbacks for a bill that is meant to be the first step in a lengthy process," indicating ongoing challenges in garnering unified support within the party.

3. U.S.-Russia Talks Aim to Normalize Diplomatic Relations

[02:18] Shea Stevens

Delegations from the United States and Russia are scheduled to meet in Turkey with the goal of normalizing diplomatic relations between the two nations. However, these talks are not expected to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Charles Maynes explains: [02:30] Charles Maynes

• The discussions focus on restoring embassy and consulate staffing, a move intended to mend decades-long diplomatic tensions marked by reciprocal expulsions and the seizure of diplomatic properties.
• Alexander Derchiyev, Russia's newly appointed ambassador to the U.S., will lead the Russian side, while Sonata Coulter, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central Europe, will head the American delegation.
• Maynes highlights the controversy surrounding the return of diplomats, noting that critics in both capitals argue that past expulsions were strategic actions to eliminate espionage threats. "While the return of diplomats would seem low hanging fruit for negotiations, it's not without controversy," he states.

4. U.S. Sanctions Iran and Delta Air Lines Faces Tariff Pressures

[03:11] Shea Stevens

The U.S. Treasury Department has announced new sanctions targeting five entities and one individual accused of supporting Iran's nuclear program. This move coincides with imminent talks between senior U.S. and Iranian officials aimed at ending Tehran's nuclear ambitions. President Trump has warned that Iran would face significant dangers if the negotiations fail, reiterating his stance from the previous administration's withdrawal from the multilateral nuclear agreement with Iran.

Simultaneously, the travel sector is feeling the impact of Trump's tariffs, with Delta Air Lines reporting its first earnings decline of the year.

Marlon Hyde reports: [03:53] Marlon Hyde

• Delta Air Lines has seen its domestic consumer and corporate travel sectors suffer the most due to the imposed tariffs.
• CEO Ed Bastian remarked, "Coming into 2025, we are positioned for another year of strong growth. However, given broad economic uncertainty around global trade, growth has largely stalled."
• Despite a quarterly revenue increase of $13 billion, up more than 3% from the previous year, Delta has opted not to provide an updated full-year outlook. The company plans to offer further updates as the year progresses, closely monitoring the evolving tariff landscape and market instability.

5. LeBron James Becomes the First Male Ken Doll

[04:34] Shea Stevens

In a groundbreaking cultural milestone, LeBron James has been immortalized as the first male Ken doll by Mattel, the company renowned for creating Barbie dolls. This initiative celebrates James not only as a basketball legend but also as a significant cultural and philanthropic figure.

Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie, commented: [04:34] Krista Berger

"We are celebrating James as a role model and his impact on culture," Berger stated, emphasizing Mattel's recognition of his influence beyond the sports arena.

This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates pivotal moments in international diplomacy, economic challenges within major American industries, legislative hurdles in advancing presidential agendas, and noteworthy cultural acknowledgments. Stay informed with NPR for comprehensive coverage of the news that shapes our world.