NPR News Now: April 24, 2025, 5 AM EDT
Host: Dave Mattingly
In today's NPR News Now episode, host Dave Mattingly delivers a comprehensive update on pressing global and national issues. From escalating conflicts abroad to significant legal battles and social concerns domestically, this summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights shared during the broadcast.
1. Escalating Conflict in Ukraine
Russian Assault on Kyiv: Officials in Ukraine have reported a devastating missile and drone attack on Kyiv by Russian forces overnight, resulting in at least nine deaths and numerous injuries. The assault has led to the destruction of at least one apartment building and ignition of multiple fires across the capital. Emergency services are actively searching the rubble for additional victims.
President Zelensky's Return: Amidst the turmoil, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is cutting his trip to South Africa short to attend to the crisis at home.
Political Fallout: Former President Donald Trump has criticized Zelensky for rejecting a proposal to recognize Russia's occupation of Crimea as part of a potential peace agreement with Moscow. This stance has further strained international diplomatic efforts.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Withdrawal: In response to the ongoing tensions, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has canceled his plans to attend talks in London, highlighting the deepening complexities of the Russia-Ukraine situation.
Notable Quote:
"Officials in Ukraine are reporting at least nine deaths and dozens of injuries in Kyiv after Russian forces attacked the capital with missiles and drones overnight."
— Dave Mattingly [00:15]
2. Legal Challenges to President Trump's Tariff Policies
State-Level Lawsuits: A coalition of twelve states, led by Democratic attorneys general from New York, Illinois, Oregon, and Arizona, has filed lawsuits challenging President Trump's sweeping tariffs. These states argue that the imposition of tariffs infringes upon Congressional powers, asserting that only Congress holds the authority to levy such taxes.
Legal Arguments: The lawsuit contends that while the president may enact tariffs during emergencies, the current actions exceed legal bounds and lack proper declaration. The case is co-led by Arizona Attorney General Chris Mays.
Expert Commentary: An unnamed legal expert criticized the administration's actions, stating:
"We are facing an unprecedented and lawless presidency, one that has made a habit over the last three months of disregarding the separation of powers and ignoring the two other co-equal branches of government."
— Unnamed Legal Expert [01:38]
Impact on Americans: The attorneys general highlighted that the tariffs could result in significant financial burdens for American citizens, increasing the cost of goods and affecting the overall economy.
Notable Quote:
"The attorneys general are specifically challenging four of Trump's executive orders and argued the tariffs will leave Americans shouldering high costs."
— Cameron Sanchez [01:55]
3. Illegal Deportation Case Under Scrutiny
Deportation Controversy: A federal judge has granted the Trump administration an additional week to provide details regarding the illegal deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from the United States to El Salvador. Judge Paul Zinis had previously accused the administration of "willful and bad faith refusal to comply" with her instructions to address the case.
Administration's Stance: The Justice Department has acknowledged that Garcia's deportation last month resulted from an administrative error. However, they maintain that they cannot facilitate his return as he remains in the custody of El Salvador.
Notable Quote:
"Federal District Judge Paul Ozinis had ordered the Trump administration to explain what it's doing to seek the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the US."
— Joel Rose [02:06]
4. Preparations for Pope Francis's Funeral
Massive Public Attendance: The Vatican has reported that tens of thousands have gathered at St. Peter's Basilica to pay their respects to Pope Francis, whose body lies in state ahead of his funeral scheduled for Saturday.
5. Rising Juvenile Incarceration Rates in the US
Historical Lows Reversed: During the COVID-19 pandemic, juvenile incarceration rates in the United States plummeted to historic lows. However, recent federal data indicate a troubling resurgence, with rates climbing back up.
Disparities Among Racial Groups: The data reveals that in 2023, black children were nearly six times more likely to be incarcerated than their white peers, while Native American children faced incarceration rates nearly four times higher than those of white children.
Long-Term Effects: Nate Bayless from the Annie E. Casey Foundation emphasized the detrimental impacts of juvenile detention:
"The longer young people stay in detention, the less likely they are to, for example, enroll in school, far less likely to ever graduate, more likely to be rearrested than young people who are not detained."
— Nate Bayless [04:05]
Bayless advocates for a juvenile justice system that guides youth towards positive paths, arguing that reliance on detention undermines these efforts.
Notable Quote:
"They're also more likely to wind up in the adult system. Bayless says juvenile justice should steer young people toward a different path and that relying on detention makes that harder."
— Meg Anderson [04:17]
6. Passing of Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McMichael
Legacy and Passing: Steve McMichael, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and 1985 Super Bowl champion with the Chicago Bears, has died at the age of 67 after battling ALS. His contributions to the NFL and his legacy in football are being honored nationwide.
NFL Draft Announcement: In related news, this year's NFL draft is set to take place tonight, with the Tennessee Titans holding the first pick. This event marks a significant moment for teams and players aspiring to make their mark in professional football.
Notable Quote:
"Pro Football Hall of Famer and 1985 Super Bowl champion Steve McMichael has died at the age of 67 following a battle with ALS."
— Dave Mattingly [04:31]
Conclusion
Today's episode of NPR News Now provides a thorough overview of critical events shaping the world and the United States. From the intensifying conflict in Ukraine and significant legal challenges to presidential policies, to pressing social issues like juvenile incarceration and the loss of a sports legend, the broadcast ensures listeners are well-informed on the latest developments.
For more detailed reports and continuous updates, tune into NPR News Now or visit NPR's official website.