NPR News Now – April 19, 2025, 3PM EDT

Nora Raum presents a comprehensive update on today’s most pressing issues, ranging from Supreme Court decisions and environmental policies to international conflicts, historical commemorations, and the latest in sports.

Supreme Court Halts Deportations of Venezuelan Men

[00:26 - 01:29]

In a significant victory for immigrant rights, the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelan men under the Alien Enemies Act, an old wartime statute. Nora Raum introduced the story, highlighting the administration's aggressive stance:

“The Trump administration accuses the group of men of being gang members,” Raum reported.

Juliana Kim provided further details, noting that the Supreme Court's intervention came after the American Civil Liberties Union alerted them to the rapid deportation efforts. Despite the Court imposing restrictions on the law’s usage, federal officials confirmed that approximately one hundred migrants have already been deported under this statute, including men detained and deported to El Salvador.

“Some hundred migrants have already been deported under the wartime statute,” Kim explained [00:46].

Commercial Fishing Allowed in Protected Hawaiian Waters

[01:29 - 02:10]

Julia Simon covered President Trump's controversial decision to permit commercial fishing in one of the world’s largest ocean reserves located west of Hawaii. The region is home to endangered species such as whales, sea turtles, tropical seabirds, and black coral.

“This move to open the area for commercial fishing will help that industry,” Simon reported [01:41].

However, environmentalists argue the opposite, emphasizing that protected areas are crucial for the successful spawning of fish populations. The monument, originally established by President George W. Bush and expanded by President Obama, faces opposition as the Trump administration seeks to balance economic interests with environmental conservation.

Cancellation of Offshore Wind Project Near Long Island

[02:10 - 02:41]

In energy news, the Trump administration has canceled a multi-billion dollar offshore wind project near Long Island, which was slated to supply electricity to half a million customers. Nora Raum reported that Interior Secretary Doug Burgum justified the cancellation by stating the project requires more comprehensive study:

“The project needs more study, that its approval by the Biden administration had been rushed,” Raum conveyed [02:10].

This decision marks a significant shift in renewable energy initiatives, raising questions about the administration’s commitment to sustainable energy sources.

Putin Orders Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine Conflict

[02:41 - 03:21]

Charles Maynes brought updates from Moscow, where Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a temporary cessation of military operations in Ukraine to observe the Easter holiday. During a televised meeting with his top general, Putin ordered a ceasefire from Saturday evening through midnight Sunday.

“I am counting on Ukraine to follow suit,” Maynes reported quoting Putin [02:46].

However, Putin instructed his military to remain on high alert to counter any potential provocations by Kyiv. Russia's Defense Ministry affirmed their adherence to the ceasefire, contingent upon Ukraine reciprocating. Just before the truce, explosions were confirmed in Kyiv, highlighting the fragility of the ceasefire agreement.

This announcement follows the Trump administration’s recent warnings about potentially abandoning peace negotiations if there is no tangible progress, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict.

30th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing

[03:21 - 04:07]

Today marks the 30th anniversary of the deadliest homegrown terrorist attack in U.S. history. A truck bomb detonated outside a federal building in Oklahoma City on April 19, 1995, resulting in the tragic loss of 168 lives, including 19 children.

A remembrance ceremony was held near the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, where former President Bill Clinton delivered a poignant keynote address. Nora Raum highlighted Clinton’s message on the perils of political polarization:

“He cautioned about the polarizing nature of modern day politics and how divisiveness can lead to violence,” Raum noted [03:21].

Clinton’s remarks serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of hate-fueled actions and the importance of fostering unity in contemporary society.

NHL Playoffs Kick Off

[04:07 - 04:46]

Becky Sullivan provided an in-depth preview of the National Hockey League’s postseason, where 16 teams compete for the Stanley Cup. She spotlighted several key teams:

• Winnipeg Jets: For the first time, the Jets reached the playoffs with a league-leading 56 wins, bolstered by exceptional goaltending from Connor Hellebæk. Despite their strong performance, they face a challenging first-round matchup against the St. Louis Blues.

“They have a tough first round matchup against the St. Louis Blues,” Sullivan explained [04:07].

• Washington Capitals: Energized by Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time career goals record, the Capitals have been a formidable force. However, they are currently experiencing a slump, having lost eight of their last twelve games.

“They've lost eight of their last 12,” Sullivan noted [04:07].

• Toronto Maple Leafs: Viewed as the hottest team in the Eastern Conference, the Maple Leafs carry their own playoff challenges, having secured only one playoff series victory in the past two decades.

“They've only won one playoff series in the past 20 years,” Sullivan added [04:07].

NBA Playoffs Begin

[04:46 - 05:04]

Turning to basketball, Nora Raum reported on the commencement of the NBA’s first-round playoffs. Four games took place today, with four more scheduled for tomorrow. The leading contenders include:

• Oklahoma Thunder: Holding the best record in the Western Conference as the number one seed.

  “The team with the best record is the Oklahoma Thunder,” Raum stated [04:46].

• Cleveland Cavaliers: Dominating the Eastern Conference, the Cavaliers are poised to advance further in the playoffs.

  “The Cleveland Cavaliers lead the Eastern Conference,” Raum continued [04:46].

Fans can expect intense matchups as these top-seeded teams vie for championship glory in their respective leagues.

Stay informed with NPR News Now for the latest updates and in-depth coverage of today’s events.