NPR News Now: 1AM EST Newscast – November 23, 2025

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This concise NPR News Now episode delivers the latest global, national, and local headlines in five minutes. The update covers significant diplomatic developments involving the U.S., Russia, and the ongoing Ukraine war; political changes in Georgia; continuing tensions in Gaza; a notable archaeological discovery; and recent major college football results.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. U.S.–Russia Relations: Potential Trump–Putin Summit

(00:17–01:11)

• Diplomatic Prospects: A high-level Russian official stated that Moscow still hopes for a summit between President Trump and President Putin.
• Ongoing Dialogue: Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Rybkov praised the current communication between the U.S. and Russia as “impressive.”
• Ukraine Peace Efforts: President Trump is pushing for a negotiated end to the war in Ukraine, introducing a draft peace plan. President Putin “loosely endorsed” this plan, but critics argue it heavily favors Moscow.
• Summit History: Trump and Putin last met in August (Alaska), with no diplomatic breakthrough. A follow-up summit in Hungary was canceled due to Trump’s complaints of stalled progress.

Notable Quote:

• “I wouldn’t rule anything out.” — Sergei Rybkov, as reported by Charles Mainnes (00:29)

2. Marjorie Taylor Greene Announces Resignation

(01:11–01:59)

• Surprise Announcement: Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene will resign from Congress, following months of tension with President Trump.
• Local Reaction: The news took many by surprise in her district, where Greene is popular.
• Supporters’ Sentiments: Pam Lashai, a constituent, wishes Greene and Trump could reconcile.
• Skepticism and Critique: Other constituents like Josh Williams are doubtful of her motives.

Notable Quotes:

• “I think he should get over it. And yes, supporter.” — Pam Lashai (01:34)
• “I’m glad that she has seen the light, as she is, like, purporting, but I don’t think… I think she’s a grifter.” — Josh Williams (01:44)

3. Escalating Violence Amid Gaza Ceasefire

(01:59–02:53)

• Casualties: Israeli strikes killed at least 24 and injured over 80 people. Both Israel and Hamas accuse each other of violating the ongoing ceasefire, which remains technically in effect.
• Military Actions: Israeli drone and airstrikes targeted Gaza City and central Gaza, with gunfire in Rafah (southern Gaza).
• Disputed Claims: Israel asserts militants crossed into Israeli-controlled territory, resulting in the death of five senior Hamas officials. Hamas labels the attacks as a “blatant violation” and urges U.S. and other mediators to intervene.

Notable Quote:

• “[Israeli strikes] have continued throughout the fragile ceasefire deal, which is in its second month but has largely stalled in the first phase.” — Kat Lansdorf (02:17)

4. Los Angeles Port Fire Contained

(02:53–03:28)

• Incident: A fire broke out on a container ship at the Port of Los Angeles, prompting shelter-in-place orders due to hazardous materials.
• Status Update: The fire is now nearly contained with no injuries reported; orders have been lifted.
• Possible Cause: Officials suggest an electrical problem may have been to blame.

5. 5,200-Year-Old Canoe Discovered in Wisconsin

(03:28–04:14)

• Archaeological Find: The oldest canoe ever found in the Great Lakes region—estimated at 5,200 years old—was discovered in Lake Mendota, Wisconsin.
• Historical Context: The Wisconsin Historical Society has located 16 ancient canoes in the lake, possibly stashed by indigenous peoples under shoreline sediment.
• Significance: The canoe adds to understanding long-term indigenous presence and watercraft habits in the region.

Notable Quote:

• “What we're seeing really is a parking lot.” — Tamara Thompson, maritime archaeologist (03:28)

6. College Football Highlights

(04:14–04:56)

• Summaries of Saturday’s major college football games and scores:
  • Oregon (#7) defeated USC (#15): 42–27
  • Oklahoma (#8) edged Missouri (#22): 17–6
  • Georgia (#4) beat Charlotte: 35–3
  • Notre Dame (#9) over Syracuse (unranked): 77–7
  • Alabama (#10) blanked Eastern Illinois: 56–12
  • Vanderbilt topped Kentucky: 45–17
  • Ohio State (#1) rallied past Rutgers: 42–9
  • Prairie View defeated Mississippi Valley State: 59–6

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I wouldn’t rule anything out.” — Sergei Rybkov on potential Trump–Putin summit (00:29)
• “I think he should get over it.” — Pam Lashai, Greene supporter on Trump tensions (01:34)
• “I’m glad that she has seen the light… but I don’t think… I think she’s a grifter.” — Josh Williams, constituent (01:44)
• “What we’re seeing really is a parking lot.” — Tamara Thompson, discussing ancient canoe site (03:28)
• “Israeli strikes have continued throughout the fragile ceasefire deal…” — Kat Lansdorf (02:17)

Segment Timestamps

• 00:17 – U.S.–Russia/Ukraine diplomatic developments
• 01:11 – Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation reactions
• 01:59 – Israeli–Hamas ceasefire, Gaza violence update
• 02:53 – Port of Los Angeles container ship fire
• 03:28 – 5,200-year-old canoe discovery in Wisconsin
• 04:14 – College football score roundup

This episode delivers straightforward, up-to-date information on headline issues, emphasizing rapid global and local developments, direct from NPR’s news desk.