NPR News Now: May 17, 2025, 9 PM EDT

Released on May 18, 2025

1. Vehicle Explosion Near Palm Springs Fertility Clinic

Reporter: Jeanine Herbst
Timestamp: [00:20]

Authorities in California are investigating a deliberate vehicle explosion near a fertility clinic in Palm Springs. Tragically, one person has lost their life, and efforts are underway to identify the victim. FBI spokesperson Akil Davis confirmed to the Associated Press that the clinic was intentionally targeted. Despite the explosion, the head of the clinic assured the public that the IVF laboratory and stored embryos remained unharmed. Additionally, the building sustained damage following a warning from Walmart about potential price hikes due to President Trump's imposed tariffs.

2. President Trump Criticizes Walmart Over Tariffs

Reporter: Michael Levitt
Timestamp: [00:58]

In a fiery exchange on his social media platform, Truth Social, President Donald Trump took aim at Walmart, stating, “Walmart made billions of dollars last year and that the retailer should, quote, not charge valued customers anything” (00:58). This criticism follows Walmart executives' warnings that President Trump's trade policies could lead to increasing prices on store shelves in the coming months. Despite Trump's assertion that his tariffs will ultimately bolster the American economy and rejuvenate the manufacturing sector, stock markets remain volatile. Economic experts continue to express concerns about a potential recession, casting doubt on the administration's optimistic outlook.

3. Severe Storms Devastate the Midwest

Reporter: George Hale
Timestamp: [01:38]

The Midwest has been battered by severe storms, resulting in the deaths of over two dozen individuals. Central Indiana, particularly near Bloomington, experienced a devastating tornado that leveled a post office and caused significant damage to dozens of homes. Local authorities reported several injuries, including an elderly man hospitalized with a head injury. National Weather Service investigators, including meteorologist Matthew Eckhoff, are conducting field visits to assess the tornadoes' size and power (02:11). Campers at a nearby state park were also injured, and many remain stranded as roadways are being cleared. The community faces the daunting task of recovery in the aftermath of these destructive storms.

4. Drone Attack in Ukraine Claims Nine Lives

Reporter: Polina Litvinova
Timestamp: [02:28]

In a tragic incident near Bilopillya, close to the Russian border, a Russian drone struck a shuttle bus, resulting in at least nine fatalities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his anguish on social media, noting that an entire family of three was among the victims. He emphasized the necessity of “stronger sanctions” and “stronger pressure on Russia” to compel a cessation of hostilities and to pave the way for genuine diplomacy (02:35). This attack occurred just a day after Russia and Ukraine engaged in their first direct talks in three years. While the discussions did not lead to a ceasefire, both nations agreed to a significant prisoner exchange, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing conflict dynamics.

5. New Jersey's Historic Transit Strike

Reporter: Jeanine Herbst
Timestamp: [03:14]

Negotiations are underway to resolve an unprecedented strike involving train engineers and transit officials in New Jersey. The strike, the first in over four decades, began yesterday and has disrupted the commuter rail system used by approximately 350,000 passengers traveling to New York City. New Jersey Transit head, Chris Coloury, expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, stating, “We're hopeful the two sides can reach an agreement” (03:14). In preparation for a prolonged strike, transit authorities are deploying buses to accommodate riders and have urged employees to work from home where possible. The primary contention in the negotiations centers around pay disputes, highlighting longstanding tensions within the state's transit infrastructure.

6. Austria Triumphs at the 69th Eurovision Song Contest

Reporter: Chloe Veltman
Timestamp: [04:11]

Austria has emerged victorious at the 69th Eurovision Song Contest with JJ's "Wasted Love," outshining 25 competing entries in the finals held in Switzerland today. The winning song bears a resemblance to last year's victor, "Nemo's the Code," particularly in its “soaring operatic vocals” (04:11). However, "Wasted Love" distinguishes itself by incorporating minimal banging beats solely in its concluding segments, contrasting with the more club-oriented anthem of the previous year. This marks Austria's third triumph in Eurovision history, following Udo Jurgens in 1965 and Conchita Wurst in 2014. Israel secured second place, while Estonia followed in third. As tradition dictates, the 70th Eurovision Song Contest will be hosted next year in Austria, celebrating their latest win.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of significant events ranging from local incidents and international conflicts to economic tensions and cultural achievements. By delivering timely updates and in-depth reporting, NPR continues to inform listeners about critical developments shaping our world.