NPR News Now: April 19, 2025, 5PM EDT

Hosted by NPR, this episode of NPR News Now delivers the latest national and international news in a concise, five-minute update. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed.

Trump Administration's Federal Actions Since January

Since Donald Trump assumed office in January, significant changes have been implemented within the federal government. The White House Budget Office has imposed a pause on all federal grants and loans, signaling a shift in the administration's fiscal policies. Additionally, President Trump's tariffs are already impacting the economy as his administration endeavors to dramatically remake the federal government.

“The impact of the Trump administration's tariffs is already being felt in President Trump's efforts to radically remake the federal government,” [00:07] Unknown Speaker 2.

Supreme Court Halts Deportations of Venezuelan Men

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelan men. These deportations were being expedited under an outdated wartime statute that allows for the removal of foreigners deemed threats by the government.

“The Supreme Court stepped in after the American Civil Liberties Union alerted them that immigration authorities were moving to quickly prepare removals under the Alien Enemies act,” [00:47] Unknown Speaker 2.

The administration had accused the detainees of gang affiliations, but the court's intervention has paused these actions, highlighting concerns over the misuse of emergency statutes for immigration enforcement.

Putin Orders Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a ceasefire for Easter Day in Ukraine, urging Ukrainian forces to reciprocate. This directive was issued during a televised meeting with his top military general.

“Putin said he was counting on Ukraine to follow suit, but told his military to remain on alert to respond to provocations by Kyiv,” [01:43] Charles Baines, NPR News, Moscow.

The Russian Defense Ministry has agreed to honor the ceasefire on the condition that Ukraine adheres to it as well. However, tensions remain high, with reports of explosions in Kyiv just before the truce was expected to commence. This move comes amid the Trump administration's recent statements questioning the progress of peace negotiations.

CDC Reports Decrease in Fentanyl Overdoses

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new data indicating that fentanyl overdose deaths in the United States have reached their lowest levels in five years. In November 2024, fatal overdoses were reported at approximately 82,000, down from a peak of 114,000 in the summer of 2023.

“Addiction experts say factors likely causing the hopeful trend included the widespread use of the overdose reversal drug naloxone, better fentanyl purity, and improved public health and addiction treatment,” [02:36] Brian Mann, NPR News.

Virginia leads the charge with a 41% decrease in drug-related deaths, while states like Alaska, Nevada, and South Dakota have seen minor increases. The decline reflects successful public health strategies and increased access to life-saving interventions.

NHL Playoffs Kick Off with 16 Teams Competing for the Stanley Cup

The National Hockey League's (NHL) postseason has begun, featuring 16 teams vying for the prestigious Stanley Cup. The opening game is scheduled for 6 PM Eastern Time.

“The Winnipeg Jets have never won a Stanley Cup, but this season, they finished with 56 wins, the most in the league,” [03:40] Becky Sullivan, NPR News.

Despite their strong regular-season performance, the Jets face a challenging first-round matchup against the St. Louis Blues, who are currently on a winning streak. In the Eastern Conference, the Washington Capitals lead, driven by Alex Ovechkin's pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record. However, the Caps are currently struggling, having lost eight of their last twelve games. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also a formidable team in the east, though historical playoff challenges persist.

NBA Playoffs Begin with Exciting First-Round Matchups

The National Basketball Association (NBA) playoffs have commenced, featuring intense first-round games with key matchups scheduled over the next couple of days.

“The Oklahoma Thunder is the number one seed in the West with 68 wins this season,” [04:21] Jeanine Herbst, NPR News.

Highlighting recent performances, the Indiana Pacers triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks with a score of 100-1798 (note: there appears to be a typographical error in the score). Upcoming games include the Detroit Pistons facing the New York Knicks at 6:00 PM Eastern. The Cleveland Cavaliers lead the Eastern Conference with 64 wins, positioning them as strong contenders despite only three number one seeds making it to the finals in the past five years. Both the Thunder and Cavaliers are expected to navigate a challenging path to the finals.

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