NPR News Now: Episode Summary – May 17, 2025

Release Date: May 17, 2025
Host: NPR
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes

Severe Weather Strikes Kentucky and Missouri

Timestamp: [00:24]

NPR's Dwahli Psykowtao opens the episode by reporting on powerful storms that have recently devastated parts of Kentucky and Missouri. In Kentucky, tornadoes have caused fatalities and extensive damage following weeks of deadly flooding.

Kentucky's Struggle with Tornadoes

Reporter Karen Zarr details the severe impact of the storms in Kentucky, highlighting the community's ongoing battle with extreme weather conditions.

• Mayor Alan Keck of Somerset shared his concerns:
  "[00:59] Of structures took on significant damage and it's a really scary time for our community."

He described the tornado's path, noting, "it looked as if a tornado touched down, lifted off the ground and briefly hit again, creating a swath of crumpled buildings, vehicles, and trees."

Missouri's Devastation

In Missouri, particularly in St. Louis, the storms have been equally catastrophic. Mayor Kara Spencer reported:

• Mayor Kara Spencer:
  "[01:39] I would describe this as one of the worst storms. Absolutely. The devastation is truly heartbreaking. And let's not forget, people have lost their lives."

The city has suffered five deaths, 38 injuries, over 5,000 homes affected, and approximately 90,000 residences without power. Weather Service radar confirmed a likely tornado touchdown near the St. Louis Zoo, exacerbating the damage and complicating rescue efforts.

Supreme Court Blocks Trump Administration's Deportation Measure

Timestamp: [01:55]

Turning to national politics, Psykowtao reports on a significant Supreme Court decision that halts the Trump administration's attempt to deport a group of migrants in Texas under the 18th-century Alien Enemies Act.

The migrants, accused of involvement in a Venezuelan gang, were facing deportation without adequate due process. The court found the White House's actions insufficiently justified, ensuring that the migrants retain their legal protections.

Dissenting Opinions

Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented from the majority decision, though the specifics of their dissenting opinions were not detailed in the transcript.

Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) Controversial Moves

Further elaborating on government agency dynamics, NPR's Chris Arnold reports that the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been attempting to place a team within the Government Accountability Office (GAO), a legislative branch agency.

• Chris Arnold:
  "[02:49] DOGE has been strong, arming its way into government agencies, gaining access to sensitive data and directly or indirectly firing workers."

The GAO spokesman emphasized that the GAO, being an independent agency under Congress, is not subject to executive orders, thereby rejecting DOGE's attempts to interfere.

Ukraine Unveils Advanced Sea Drones

Timestamp: [03:19]

In international news, Ukraine has introduced a groundbreaking sea drone designed to neutralize Russian fighter jets, as reported by Joanna Kakissis from Kyiv.

Details of the Magura 57 Drones

These sea drones, resembling small speedboats, are equipped with missiles and machine guns. Operated by the elite Group 13 unit, the drones represent a significant advancement in Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities.

• Unit Commander (Call Sign 13th):
  "[03:40] Ukraine must keep adapting drones to stay ahead of the Russians."

The deployment of such technology underscores Ukraine's commitment to enhancing its military strategies amidst ongoing conflicts.

Escalation in the Middle East: Israel and Gaza

Timestamp: [04:22]

The episode shifts focus to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, where Israel has intensified its military actions in the Gaza Strip.

Operation Gideon Chariots

Israel's Defense Minister announced the launch of "Operation Gideon Chariots," a campaign aimed at pressuring Hamas to release remaining hostages.

• Impact of the Operation:
  According to Palestinian health authorities, nearly 150 people have been killed in the last 24 hours due to Israel's intensified attacks.

Regional and International Responses

In Baghdad, Arab leaders convened at a summit to address the crisis. Their demands include:

• An immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza.
• Allowance of international aid into the region.
• Global community assistance in funding a reconstruction plan for Gaza.

These calls reflect the growing concern and desire for a unified response to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the area.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of significant events occurring on May 17, 2025. From severe weather impacting communities in the United States to pivotal Supreme Court decisions and international conflicts, the report encapsulates the pressing issues of the day with clarity and depth.

For those seeking a detailed briefing on current events, this episode offers valuable insights backed by firsthand reports and authoritative quotes from key figures.