NPR News Now Summary

Episode: NPR News: 04-20-2025 3AM EDT
Release Date: April 20, 2025
Host: Dale Willman

1. Supreme Court Halts Deportation of Venezuelan Migrants

In a significant legal decision, the Supreme Court intervened early Saturday morning to challenge the Trump administration's application of the Alien Enemies Act. This action temporarily prevents the deportation of Venezuelan migrants detained at the Bluebonnet Detention Center in Texas.

Jimena Bustilla reports that the Court's brief order, issued shortly after midnight Eastern Time, mandates the government to refrain from removing any individuals from the specified detainee class until further instructions are provided by the Justices. Despite the Supreme Court's prior ruling allowing deportations contingent on due process, the ACLU contends that the administration violated this directive by notifying some detainees less than a day before their scheduled removal (00:32). Justice Clarence Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito dissented, highlighting the divided opinions within the Court.

Dale Willman adds that the Trump administration has now petitioned the Supreme Court to lift the temporary stay, seeking to resume deportations. Homeland Security maintains that it is adhering to the initial Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing the administration's commitment to enforcement while complying with judicial oversight.

Notable Quote:

“These would be some of the Venezuelan migrants being held at the Blue Bonnet facility in Texas.” — Jimena Bustilla (00:32)

2. Putin Announces Easter Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a temporary cessation of military operations in Ukraine to observe Easter, urging Ukrainian forces to reciprocate. Charles Mainz provides insight from Moscow, detailing Putin's directive during a televised meeting with his top general. The ceasefire is set to commence on Saturday evening and extend through midnight Sunday.

Putin expressed hope that Ukraine would honor the truce but instructed his military to remain vigilant against any provocations from Kyiv. Russia's Defense Ministry confirmed its commitment to the ceasefire, conditional upon Ukraine's agreement. However, tensions remain high as the NPR Kyiv Bureau reported explosions in Kyiv just before the truce's initiation, indicating that some hostilities persist despite the announcement.

This ceasefire comes against the backdrop of the Trump administration's recent statements warning of a potential withdrawal from peace negotiations if progress stalls. The administration's stance underscores the fragile state of diplomatic efforts to end the prolonged conflict.

Notable Quote:

“Putin said he was counting on Ukraine to follow suit, but told his military to remain on alert to respond to provocations by Kyiv.” — Charles Mainz (01:31)

3. Nationwide 5051 Movement Sees Major Protests in Colorado Springs

The 5051 movement, characterized by holding 50 protests across 50 states in a single day, saw a significant turnout in Colorado Springs. Hundreds gathered to voice their opposition to the Trump administration's policies, particularly focusing on education funding cuts.

Stephanie Rivera from Colorado Public Radio highlights the participation of Cynthia Barham, a wheelchair user advocating for "Liberation Through Public Education." Barham expressed concern that reductions in the Department of Education's budget would disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities, limiting their access to education and equal rights.

Notable Quote:

“So if there are a bunch of cuts to that, then there are going to be a whole bunch of people that don't get to go to school the way I did. And that kind of burns me up right now.” — Cynthia Barham (02:53)

Her activism underscores broader anxieties about the future of federal funding for education in Colorado and beyond, as municipalities grapple with uncertain financial support.

4. FEMA Withdraws Flood Mitigation Grants, Impacting North Carolina Projects

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the cancellation of a series of grants intended to aid communities in combating flooding nationwide. This decision has left numerous municipalities, including those in North Carolina, without essential federal funding despite substantial prior investments.

Zachary Turner reports from Salisbury, North Carolina, where local authorities had already allocated $3 million toward permit applications and project planning for flood mitigation. Salisbury Rowan Utilities Director Jason Wilson emphasizes the critical nature of these projects, noting that the pump station serves 53,000 customers and is vital for cooling water at a nearby power plant. The absence of FEMA funds jeopardizes the relocation efforts necessary to safeguard the water supply against increasing threats from sediment, pollution, and climate change-induced flooding.

Notable Quote:

“We have a power plant that uses it for cooling water, so we have a lot of critical customers that rely on our water on a daily basis.” — Jason Wilson (03:52)

FEMA's withdrawal affects over 40 similar projects in North Carolina, potentially leaving the state vulnerable to future flooding events without adequate infrastructure improvements.

5. NBA Playoffs Deliver Thrilling Performances and Upsets

The first round of the NBA playoffs showcased exhilarating games and unexpected outcomes:

• New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons: The Knicks executed a remarkable 21-0 run in the fourth quarter, securing a decisive 123-112 victory. Star player Jalen Brunson led the charge with an impressive 34-point performance.

• Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers: Overcoming Luka Doncic's 37 points, the Timberwolves triumphed with a score of 117-95. Anthony Edwards contributed significantly with 22 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds.

• Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Clippers: In a tightly contested overtime battle, the Nuggets edged out the Clippers 112-110.

• Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks: The Pacers delivered a strong performance, overwhelming the Bucks with a final score of 117-98.

These games highlight the competitive spirit and talent on display as teams vie for progression in the postseason.

Notable Highlights:

• Jalen Brunson’s 34 points for the Knicks (04:23)
• Anthony Edwards’ near-double-double stat line with 22 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds for the Timberwolves (04:23)

This summary provides an overview of the key topics covered in the NPR News Now episode released on April 20, 2025. For detailed information, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode.