NPR News Now: December 27, 2024, 6AM EST

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporter Contributions: Gene McKenzie, Michelle Kellerman, Alejandra Barunda

South Korea Faces Political Upheaval

In a swift turn of events, South Korea's parliament has impeached Prime Minister Han Deok Soo, who was briefly serving as the acting president. This move follows the impeachment and suspension of President Yoon Sang Yol due to his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law.

Gene McKenzie reports from Seoul:
"As the opposition party voted to impeach Prime Minister Han using its sizeable majority in parliament, MPs in the ruling party crowded around the speaker of the House, shouting, angry with his decision to even let this vote go ahead" (00:38). The opposition cited Han's refusal to appoint judges they selected for President Yoon's impeachment trial, arguing that Han was protecting the president and thus unfit to lead. The impeachment has deepened the country's political instability, resulting in gridlocked decision-making and a struggling economy.

Following Han's removal, South Korea's Finance Minister, Choi Sang Mok, has been appointed as the new acting president and prime minister (01:14). This leadership change marks another chapter in the nation's ongoing political turmoil.

Controversy Over Gaza Famine Report

A U.S.-funded group monitoring global food security retracted its latest report on northern Gaza, which had initially warned of an impending famine. NPR's Michelle Kellerman explains that the Famine Early Warning Systems Network is revising the alert for release in January, citing inflated population figures in the region.

Michelle Kellerman reports:
"The Famine Early Warning Systems Network says its latest alert on Gaza is under review and will be re-released with updated data and analysis in January" (01:37). U.S. officials, including Ambassador Jack Lew, criticized the premature report, labeling it "irresponsible." The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which oversees the monitoring group, maintains concern over the severe food insecurity in Gaza despite minimal aid reaching Palestinians in the north.

Bird Flu Alerts for Pet Owners

U.S. health authorities are cautioning pet owners about the risks of bird flu transmission from consuming raw milk and raw pet food. Dr. Michael Bailey, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, highlighted that "raw proteins" like raw milk and raw meat can harbor the bird flu virus, posing a threat to both pets and their owners (02:22).

Additionally, a Washington state animal sanctuary has reported the death of 20 large cats, including four cougars and a half Bengal tiger, due to bird flu over the past month (02:56). This surge underscores the virus's impact on both domestic animals and wildlife.

Germany Dissolves Parliament Ahead of Elections

Germany is set to hold national elections in February after President [Name] dissolved the country's parliament. This decision follows Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent loss in a vote of confidence, signaling significant shifts in the nation's political landscape (02:56).

Kazakhstan Investigates Christmas Day Plane Crash

Officials in Kazakhstan have recovered flight data recorders from a passenger jet that crashed on Christmas Day, resulting in dozens of fatalities. Preliminary images suggest damage to the plane's tail consistent with an explosive device, raising suspicions of sabotage (02:56).

New York Implements Climate Superfund Law

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a groundbreaking bill establishing a state climate Superfund. This initiative empowers the state to identify and fine major greenhouse gas emitters, with funds allocated to protect residents from extreme weather events.

Alejandra Barunda reports:
"Human caused climate change is expensive. This year alone, New York state saw eight weather disasters that cost more than $1 billion each" (03:56). Modeled after the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Superfund program, the new law aims to hold polluters accountable by imposing fines of up to $3 billion annually for the next 25 years. Vermont enacted a similar law earlier this year. Legal experts anticipate challenges to New York's legislation, but officials emphasize its importance in mitigating climate-related costs (03:56).

Severe Weather Threats Across the Southern U.S.

The National Weather Service has confirmed tornado touchdowns in central Louisiana and multiple locations near Houston, Texas, yesterday (04:32). Meteorologists warn of an elevated risk for severe storms extending from east Texas through Mississippi and into Tennessee, with the threat persisting through tomorrow night. Residents in these areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for potential adverse weather conditions.

Stay informed with the latest updates from NPR News Now.