NPR News Now: December 26, 2024, 9AM EST
On December 26, 2024, NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update on global and national events, ranging from international conflicts and diplomatic negotiations to natural disasters and significant legislative advancements. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics covered in the episode.
1. Russia's Massive Christmas Day Attack on Ukraine
Reporter: Korva Coleman and Brian Mann
Timestamp: [00:18] - [01:17]
On Christmas Day, Russia launched a substantial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, deploying approximately 70 missiles and 100 drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that while the majority of these attacks were intercepted, at least 20 missiles breached Ukraine’s defenses, causing widespread power outages and disrupting heating across the nation. Brian Mann reported from Kyiv, highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian citizens despite the devastation:
“There were strikes all around my house,” said Svitana Artyzhova of Kharkiv. “It was frightening. But we're still standing. We're still alive.” ([00:32])
The attack resulted in casualties, including the death of an engineer from Ukraine’s largest private energy company, dtec. President Joe Biden described the strike as “outrageous,” a sentiment echoed by incoming President Donald Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, both condemning Moscow’s aggression.
2. Stalled Ceasefire Negotiations Between Israel and Hamas
Reporter: Korva Coleman and Emily Fang
Timestamp: [01:17] - [02:16]
Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remain unresolved, despite indications of progress over recent weeks. NPR's Emily Fang reported that disagreements persist over several critical issues:
- Hostage Release: Debates center on whether Hamas will release hostages in stages or all at once.
- Detente of Detainees: Israel demands the release of specific Palestinian prisoners, a point of contention.
- Military Withdrawal: Discussions on the timeline and conditions under which the Israeli military would withdraw from Gaza.
- Governance Post-Ceasefire: Uncertainty remains about who will govern Gaza following a potential ceasefire.
A Hamas official indicated some flexibility regarding detainee releases but noted that Israel is insisting the ceasefire be temporary, potentially allowing hostilities to resume. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Hamas's last-minute changes as “lying” ([01:30]).
3. Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami
Reporter: Korva Coleman
Timestamp: [02:16] - [02:56]
Today marks two decades since a catastrophic earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated the Indian Ocean region, claiming over 230,000 lives across approximately a dozen countries, primarily in Southeast Asia. The tsunami’s immense power extended its destructive reach to East Africa, resulting in hundreds of fatalities. Reflecting on the tragedy, Korva Coleman highlighted the enduring impact and the ongoing remembrance of those lost.
4. Altercation at Phoenix International Airport
Reporter: Korva Coleman
Timestamp: [02:16] - [03:07]
An incident at Phoenix International Airport caused temporary suspensions of operations inside one of its terminals. The altercation occurred near a restaurant outside security checkpoints, resulting in three individuals being shot and a fourth stabbed. Phoenix Police Sergeant Mayra Resent provided an update:
“This incident has been resolved. It was resolved very quickly. There's nobody outstanding. We are not looking, we do not believe that there's any suspects out there outstanding. I want to put everybody at ease.” ([02:57])
One victim remains in critical condition. Authorities assure the public that the situation is under control and the airport has resumed full operations.
5. Investigation into Power Cable Interruption in the Baltic Sea
Reporter: Korva Coleman
Timestamp: [03:07] - [03:56]
Finnish officials are currently investigating a disruption to a major power cable located on the floor of the Baltic Sea, which provides electricity to Estonia. The power supply ceased abruptly at midday yesterday, raising suspicions amid recent incidents of sabotage in the region. Notably, two international data cables were severed the previous month, and underwater gas pipelines between Russia and Germany were attacked in September 2022. Estonia's government is actively reviewing the incident to determine the cause and prevent future disruptions.
6. U.S. Congress Passes Landmark Caregiver Support Bill
Reporter: Quill Lawrence
Timestamp: [03:56] - [04:40]
Congress has enacted a significant legislative measure named after Senator Elizabeth Dole, aimed at supporting military veteran caregivers. Quill Lawrence reported that the Elizabeth Dole Caregiver Act will allocate approximately one billion dollars over the next decade to expand benefits for caregivers assisting elderly or sick veterans at home. Key provisions include:
- Enhanced Caregiver Benefits: Recognizing that family members often provide more effective care than institutional settings.
- Financial Savings: Estimated to save the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) tens of millions annually.
- Support Services: Includes mental health resources for caregivers themselves.
The bill also broadens veterans' access to private medical care outside the VA system, anticipating increased utilization under the incoming Trump administration. This expansion addresses long-held recommendations to better support those who care for veterans, acknowledging the critical and relentless nature of caregiving roles.
7. Winter Storm Warnings Across the Western United States
Reporter: Korva Coleman
Timestamp: [04:40] - [04:56]
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories from Washington state to Utah. These alerts are in response to a series of Pacific Ocean storms currently affecting the West Coast. Residents are advised to prepare for heavy snowfall, strong winds, and potential travel disruptions as the weather systems continue to impact the region.
This episode of NPR News Now encapsulated a broad spectrum of important events, providing listeners with in-depth reporting and vital updates on pressing issues around the world and within the United States.