NPR News Now: November 16, 2024, 9 AM EST

NPR’s latest news roundup delivers comprehensive coverage of the day’s most pressing issues. From international diplomacy to domestic policy shifts, here’s a detailed summary of today’s episode.

1. U.S.-China Relations: President Biden Meets President Xi Jinping

[00:19] Windsor Johnston opens the episode with significant news from Washington:

“President Biden is meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping today on the sidelines of a global summit in Lima, Peru. It’s likely the last time these world leaders will meet before the next administration takes over in January.”

[00:40] Asma Khalid elaborates on the context and stakes of the meeting:

“Biden has spent much of his presidency trying to manage competition and work with allies to counter China's influence. But China's influence around the world has been growing. In fact, China's President Xi arrived in Peru this week and inaugurated a huge new Chinese-funded port in the country, an effort to extend its economic ties in Latin America.”

Key discussion points expected in the meeting include:

• Trade Practices: Addressing ongoing trade tensions and seeking fair trade agreements.
• Fentanyl: Combating the illicit drug trade impacting both nations.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Navigating the competitive landscape of technological advancements.
• Climate Change: Collaborating on global environmental initiatives.

A looming concern highlighted by Khalid is the future of U.S.-China relations under President-elect Donald Trump, who, during his campaign, threatened additional tariffs on China, potentially escalating trade conflicts.

2. Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Zelensky Advocates for Diplomacy

[01:25] Windsor Johnston transitions to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine:

“President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine must rely on diplomacy to end the war with Russia. Speaking during a radio interview, Zelensky said Ukraine should only start negotiations with Moscow from a position of strength and with the United States under Donald Trump at its side.”

In a statement through a BBC interpreter, President Zelensky emphasizes:

“Ukraine should only start negotiations with Moscow from a position of strength and with the United States under Donald Trump at its side.” [01:54] an unnamed analyst adds:

“I think Putin doesn't want peace at all, but that doesn't mean he doesn't want to sit down with any of the leaders at the same table because for him, this is the destruction of the political isolation that has been built since the beginning of the war. Sitting down to talk and not reaching an agreement I would say is to Putin's advantage.”

Zelensky remains skeptical about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to seek a genuine peace agreement, suggesting that negotiations without substantial progress may only serve to diminish Russia’s political isolation without achieving real conflict resolution.

3. U.S. Health Policy Shift: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Nominated for HHS Secretary

[02:12] Windsor Johnston reports on a significant nomination in the incoming administration:

“President Elect Donald Trump nominated Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to lead the Health and Human Services department this week. NPR's Selena Simmons Duffin reports.”

[02:33] Selena Simmons Duffin provides background on Kennedy’s career and the challenges ahead:

“Kennedy spent much of his career as an environmental activist and later promoted vaccine conspiracy theories. Some Republicans are concerned about his support for abortion access.”

During a May podcast with host Sage Steele, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. articulated his stance on abortion:

[02:48] Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: “I wouldn't leave it to the States.”

[02:50] Sage Steele: “I would, you would say completely. It's up to the woman.”

[02:55] Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: “We should leave it to the woman. We shouldn't have government involved.”

Kennedy’s position on abortion could complicate his Senate confirmation process, where he needs 51 votes to secure the role. Given that Republicans aim to curtail abortion access, his pro-choice stance raises concerns about achieving the necessary bipartisan support.

4. Tragedy in India: Fire Devastates Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

[03:14] Windsor Johnston covers a heartbreaking incident from India:

“A massive fire ripped through a neonatal intensive care unit in northern India on Friday, killing 10 newborns and injuring 16 others. Officials say the blaze spread quickly through the hospital. An investigation is underway.”

The tragic event underscores ongoing challenges in healthcare infrastructure and emergency response protocols in the region.

5. Sports Spotlight: NWSL Playoffs Heat Up

[03:25] The episode shifts to sports with Becky Sullivan’s preview of the National Women’s Soccer League playoffs:

“The four teams left with the best performing teams this season in the NWSL. On Saturday, the Washington Spirit, led by US Olympic star Trinity Rodman, will host Gotham FC, the defending champions. Then Sunday, the league's number one overall team, the Orlando Pride, will take on the Kansas City Current.”

Highlighting key players:

• Marta: The Brazilian icon plays for Orlando Pride, bringing international acclaim and exceptional skill to the team.
• Tim Wachowinga: Kansas City Current’s Malawian phenom and the NWSL’s leading scorer this year.

The winners of these semifinal matches will advance to a championship game later this month in Kansas City. This season has been historic for the NWSL, with total attendance surpassing 2 million fans for the first time, reflecting the growing popularity and support for women's soccer.

6. Labor News: Las Vegas Hospitality Workers Strike

[04:26] Windsor Johnston reports on labor unrest in Las Vegas:

“Hundreds of hospitality workers remain off the job in Las Vegas after contract negotiations broke down on Friday. The strike at Virgin Hotels marks the open-ended work stoppage in more than 20 years for the Culinary Workers Union. It's the largest labor union in Nevada with about 60,000 members.”

Key Demands:

• Better Wages: Seeking increased pay to reflect the cost of living and the demands of the job.
• Enhanced Benefits: Including healthcare, retirement plans, and other employee benefits.

The Culinary Workers Union’s action highlights ongoing tensions between hospitality workers and management in one of the nation’s premier entertainment and tourism hubs.

This concludes today’s episode of NPR News Now. Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day.