NPR News Now: December 25, 2024
On Christmas Day, NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive roundup of pivotal global events, ranging from geopolitical tensions and aviation tragedies to space exploration and natural disasters. This summary encapsulates the key stories, enriched with notable quotes and detailed insights to provide a thorough understanding of the day's headlines.
Massive Russian Airstrike Targets Ukrainian Infrastructure
Timestamp: [00:19]
The day's foremost news highlighted a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Russian forces launched an extensive airstrike on Ukraine, dispatching over 70 missiles and 1,100 remote-controlled drones.
Brian Mann, reporting from Kyiv, detailed the attack's focus on Ukraine's power infrastructure:
"The strikes began early in the morning, local time, with Ukraine's air defense system knocking down most of the missiles and drones. But in a statement, Ukraine's air force said some missiles got through."
Tragically, the assault resulted in the death of a worker at a thermal power plant in Dnipro and caused widespread power and heating outages across various regions. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the timing of the attack, remarking:
"It was clear that Russia, deliberately chose Christmas Day for an attack. Russian violence will not break Ukraine and will not spoil Christmas." [00:41]
This incident marks Moscow's 13th large-scale offensive on Ukraine's energy and power grid this year, underscoring the persistent volatility in the region. Ukrainian officials are diligently working to restore power amidst the disruptions.
Azerbaijan Airliner Crash Investigated
Timestamp: [01:23]
A tragic aviation incident unfolded in Azerbaijan when an airliner crashed, prompting an immediate investigation. The flight, en route to Chechnya, was diverted by air traffic control due to foggy conditions.
Paul Moss of the BBC CDC provided a harrowing account:
"Footage shows the aircraft turn in the air as if preparing for its final approach to the Runway, but it then drops one wing and dives into the ground before bursting into flames." [01:43]
Preliminary reports suggest that the plane may have collided with a flock of birds, contributing to the crash. Despite the severity of the impact, more than 30 passengers survived the ordeal, including two children who are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. Azerbaijan Airlines has pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.
Denmark Bolsters Defense Budget for Greenland Amidst U.S. Interest
Timestamp: [02:15]
Amid rising geopolitical interests, particularly from the United States, Denmark announced a significant increase in its defense budget allocated to Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory.
Terri Schultz of NPR detailed the developments:
"Officials in Greenland have expressed dismay at Donald Trump's repetition of how strategically important the island is and how he wants to make it part of the U.S... 'Greenland is ours,' said Greenland's Prime Minister Muta Egede. 'We are not for sale and will never be for sale.'" [02:37]
Responding to President-elect Donald Trump's repeated assertions about purchasing Greenland, Denmark has pledged to double its defense spending for the island, committing at least $1.5 billion. Danish Defence Minister Truislin Poulsen emphasized the timing as ironic:
"The defense upgrade was at the same time Trump was speaking about Greenland." [02:37]
This strategic move underscores Denmark's commitment to safeguarding Greenland's sovereignty amidst external pressures.
Astronauts Celebrate Christmas at the International Space Station
Timestamp: [03:14]
In a heartwarming segment, NPR highlighted the festive activities of four NASA astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) on Christmas Day.
Nell Greenfield Boyce reported:
"The four astronauts gathered together in front of the camera next to a small green Christmas tree. Three of them wore red Santa hats. Sunni Williams had on reindeer antlers. She let go of a handful of candy canes, which floated around." [03:43]
The astronauts also shared a holiday message, celebrating the spirit of the season despite their unconventional setting:
"One of the best things that I like about Christmas is the preparation and just getting ready." [03:54]
Originally slated to return via Boeing's Starliner after a short test flight, Sunni Williams and Butch Wilmore are now expected to return on a SpaceX flight scheduled for late March, as NASA adjusts their mission timelines.
Kilauea Volcano Eruption Continues in Hawaii
Timestamp: [04:18]
Natural forces remained a focal point of the day's news with the persistent activity of Hawaii's Kilauea volcano. For the second consecutive day, the volcano spewed lava reaching heights of up to 300 feet, attracting throngs of spectators to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Windsor Johnston provided an update:
"Officials issued a red alert for the region, warning of high levels of volcanic gases. The eruption took place in an area that's been closed to the public since 2007 due to hazardous activity, including rockfalls." [04:18]
The U.S. Geological Survey continues to monitor the situation closely, as the ongoing eruption poses significant risks to both the environment and public safety. Efforts are underway to manage crowds and ensure the safety of visitors to the national park.
This Christmas edition of NPR News Now encapsulated a spectrum of critical events shaping our world, from the throes of conflict and tragic accidents to human resilience in space and the awe-inspiring power of nature. For listeners seeking concise and insightful news coverage, this episode provided a thorough and engaging briefing on the day's most pressing stories.