Trump's Talk With Putin, Israel's Incursion, Weather Service Budget Cuts

Summary

NPR's Up First: May 20, 2025

Hosts: Steve Inskeep and Layla Falden

Episode Title: Trump's Talk With Putin, Israel's Incursion, Weather Service Budget Cuts

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Introduction

In this episode of NPR's Up First, hosts Steve Inskeep and Layla Falden delve into three major global and national issues shaping today's headlines:

1. President Trump's Diplomatic Efforts with Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
2. Israel's Military Offensive in Gaza and the mounting pressure from its traditional allies to cease operations.
3. An Active Tornado Season and the implications of proposed budget cuts to the National Weather Service on tracking extreme weather events.

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1. President Trump's Diplomatic Engagement with Vladimir Putin

Summary:

President Donald Trump engaged in a lengthy conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to broker a ceasefire in the protracted Russia-Ukraine war. While Trump portrayed the call as a step towards peace, Putin remained non-committal, indicating no immediate rush to halt hostilities. The discussions revealed a fundamental disconnect between the two leaders regarding the war's resolution, with Putin emphasizing the necessity to address the conflict's root causes—a term often interpreted as Russia's intent to exert control over Ukraine.

Notable Quotes:

• Trump on the Call:
  "I said, when are we going to end this bloodshed?"
  [02:44]

• Trump on the Nature of the Call:
  "The tone of the conversation itself was excellent," and "This bloodbath."
  [02:34] - [02:48]

• Zelenskyy's Stance:
  "We support a full and immediate ceasefire, but we do not trust Putin's motives in these negotiations."
  [04:09]

Analysis:

NPR's Charles Maines in Moscow highlights the disparity between Trump's optimistic portrayal and Putin's cautious statements. While Trump claimed progress, Putin's response suggested limited immediate change, focusing instead on future negotiations contingent on addressing deeper issues. Additionally, Trump has been maintaining dialogue with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, balancing the pursuit of peace with offering business opportunities post-conflict. European leaders from France, Germany, and the UK have responded with threats of additional sanctions should Russia not agree to an immediate ceasefire, though Russian analysts, such as Ivan Timofeyev, argue that sanctions have minimal impact on Russia's capacity to sustain the war effort.
[02:34] - [05:59]

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2. Israel's Military Offensive in Gaza and Allied Pressure

Summary:

Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, resulting in a significant rise in casualties and widespread destruction. Concurrently, Israel faces unprecedented pressure from long-standing allies—the United Kingdom, France, and Canada—to halt its offensive or face potential consequences. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating, with mass evacuations and severe shortages of essential supplies leading to dire living conditions for Palestinians.

Notable Quotes:

• Details from Gaza:
  "No food, no drinking water, no education, no health care. Just displacement and humiliation and destruction."
  [06:49]

• Casualties Highlighted by Daniel Estrin:
  "A 33-year-old para-cyclist, Ahmed El Dali, was killed," and "Hatem Abu Samra, an older gentleman who survived more than 19 months of war, was just killed in a strike."
  [07:54]

• Netanyahu's Response to Allies:
  "Their statement rewards Hamas."
  [08:50]

Analysis:

Daniel Estrin in Tel Aviv reports that Israeli airstrikes have expanded across Gaza, leading to extensive civilian displacement and loss of life. Efforts to procure a temporary ceasefire are stalled due to differing demands: Israel seeks a halt to hostilities and the release of hostages, whereas Hamas demands international guarantees ensuring a permanent end to the conflict. The U.S. has reportedly declined to provide these assurances to Hamas, exacerbating the impasse. The international community, particularly the UK, France, and Canada, has issued strong statements condemning Israel's actions, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact and arguing that continued military operations may breach international law. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has countered by accusing his allies of indirectly supporting Hamas through their demands.

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3. Active Tornado Season and Weather Service Budget Cuts

Summary:

The United States is experiencing an unusually active tornado season, with a significant increase in the number of tornadoes compared to historical averages. Experts like Melissa Widhelm from Purdue University indicate that while the overall number of tornadoes remains relatively stable over the decades, the occurrence of large outbreaks—where numerous tornadoes strike a wide area in a short timeframe—is becoming more common. This trend raises concerns about the potential influence of climate change on severe weather patterns. Additionally, proposed budget cuts to the National Weather Service threaten the agency's ability to monitor and respond to these extreme weather events effectively.

Notable Quotes:

• Current Tornado Activity:
  "There have been more tornadoes than average this year, with over 850 reported in May compared to the usual 600."
  [10:26]

• Expert Opinion on Tornado Patterns:
  "We don't see an increase or a decrease in the overall number of tornadoes. That's been pretty stable year after year since the 1950s."
  [11:06]

• Impact of Budget Cuts:
  "During the outbreak over the weekend, the local weather service office in Jackson, Kentucky, had to borrow forecasters from other offices in the region because they didn't have enough staff on their own."
  [11:57]

Analysis:

Rebecca Hersher discusses with Melissa Widhelm the nuances of tornado activity, emphasizing that while the total number remains consistent, the nature of tornado outbreaks is evolving. The increase in large-scale, simultaneous tornado events could be linked to the broader trend of climate-induced extreme weather. However, the complexity of tornado formation makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions. Furthermore, budgetary constraints and staffing shortages at the National Weather Service hinder the agency's capacity to provide timely warnings and manage data effectively, potentially exacerbating the risks associated with these severe weather events. The reduction in resources comes at a critical time when accurate and swift weather forecasting is essential for public safety.

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Conclusion

Today's episode of Up First from NPR provides a comprehensive overview of pressing global and national issues. From high-stakes diplomatic negotiations involving former President Trump and Vladimir Putin, to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst international pressure on Israel, and the challenges posed by an active tornado season amidst potential climate change influences and budgetary constraints on weather services, the hosts deliver a detailed and insightful analysis of events shaping our world.

Stay informed with NPR's Up First to understand the complexities and interconnections of today's top stories.

Transcript

[Steve Inskeep]

Good morning. We have two hosts in the same studio today. It's very exciting. We're behind on our work, though, because Layla and I were, we were trying.

[Layla Falden]

To solve the world's problems.

[Steve Inskeep]

Thank you. That's a really nice high minded way to say it. Gossiping.

[Layla Falden]

We gossiped.

[Steve Inskeep]

We failed.

[Layla Falden]

President Trump claimed on social media that he made progress on a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

[Steve Inskeep]

He'd been talking with Russia's Vladimir Putin, whose own statement suggested he's in no rush. What's the state of play?

[Layla Falden]

I'm Layla Falden with Stevenson, and this is up first from NPR News. Three of Israel's allies have warned Israel to end its offensive in Gaza. They're objecting to an operation that intensified in recent days and an Israeli order for Palestinians to evacuate. How are Israelis responding to the pressure?

[Steve Inskeep]

Also, we've had an active tornado season, which is now a normal tornado season.

[Melissa Widhelm]

It used to be kind of unusual to see, you know, dozens of them in a day. And now we get that year after year.

[Steve Inskeep]

What evidence, if any, shows a link to climate change? Stay with us. We've got the news you need to start your day.

[Charles Maines]

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[Steve Inskeep]

Spoke with Russia's leader Vladimir Putin for more than two hours on Monday about ending the war in Ukraine. And then Trump gave an account of the call. I said, when are we going to end this, Vladimir?

[Daniel Estrin]

I've known for a long time now.

[Trump]

I said, when are we going to end this bloodshed?

[Daniel Estrin]

This.

[Trump]

This bloodbath?

[Steve Inskeep]

It's a bloodbath.

[Layla Falden]

Trump claimed some success towards peace, but Putin again resisted Trump's calls for an immediate cease fire. Putin proposed more talks, which would take place even as the war continues.

[Steve Inskeep]

NPR's Charles Maines has been covering all this from Moscow. Hey there, Charles.

[Trump]

Morning, Steve.

[Steve Inskeep]

What did this call accomplish?

[Trump]

You know, both sides were really complimentary about the tone of the conversation itself, which Trump called excellent and Putin said was constructive and useful. But the two leaders seemed at odds about what had actually been achieved. Trump took to social media to say Russia had agreed to immediately start ceasefire talks and more importantly, in Trump's words, seek an end to the war. But in a brief statement to journalists, Putin suggested he was in no hurry. So here, Putin says he agreed with Trump to work with Ukraine on a memorandum about a possible future peace deal, but made clear all sorts of details needed to be worked out before they could possibly lead to a ceasefire of some defined length. And moreover, Putin again emphasized that any peace deal would still have to address what he called the root causes of the conflict. You know, that's always been Kremlin speak for Russia's fundamental desire to control Ukraine. And Ukraine knows it, so not really.

[Steve Inskeep]

Changing any of the demands that Putin has had since 2022. How did Ukraine respond?

[Trump]

Well, I think it's first important to point out that Trump held talks with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy before the Putin conversation and after. So Trump is certainly giving Zelensky time and attention. But Zelenskyy has to be sensitive to offending Trump's desire to show progress here, or at least not appear to be seen as an obstacle peace. All the more so because Trump is also suggesting new business opportunities for both Russia and Ukraine once the fighting ends. So, speaking after the call, Zelensky repeated Ukraine's support for a full and immediate ceasefire, even as he really made clear he does not trust Putin's motives in these negotiations or Putin's blurring of the language of peace. Let's listen.

[Charles Maines]

But of course, Russia, as Russia, they.

[Daniel Estrin]

Want something, but they even don't know what they want.

[Trump]

And when they say they want something, they want everything.

[Steve Inskeep]

Okay, so hard to see what the progress is. But we do have France, Germany and the UK other players here threatening more sanctions against Russia if Putin doesn't agree to an immediate ceasefire. How do they see all this you.

[Trump]

Know, Putin's refusal to sign to this ceasefire deal puts Europe in an odd position. You know, do you let Trump's peace efforts play out or risk undermining them with pressure on Moscow now that but even if Europe does choose to impose additional sanctions, Russian analysts say the Kremlin fundamentally doesn't see it as a threat. Here's Ivan Timofeyev of the Russian International Affairs Council in Moscow.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Sanctions are inflicting harm, but this harm is not critical for macroeconomic stability of Russia. And actually a further escalation of sanctions would hardly be critical as well.

[Trump]

So the result, says Timofeyev, is that Russia remains convinced it can simply afford to continue the conflict if or when these peace negotiations break down. So Moscow really sees little incentive to compromise here.

[Steve Inskeep]

Charles, thanks very much for breaking that down. Really appreciate it.

[Trump]

Thank you, Steve.

[Steve Inskeep]

NPR's Charles mainnes in Moscow. Okay. Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas are now at an impasse.

[Layla Falden]

That's according to three people briefed on the negotiations who spoke to NPR. And Israel faces unprecedented pressure from three allies. The leaders of the U.K. france and Canada are calling on Israel to end the war or face consequences. The death toll in Gaza is soaring. Hundreds have been killed in Israel's newest assault, according to health officials in Gaza.

[Steve Inskeep]

NPR's Daniel Estrin is gathering all the information he can in Tel Aviv. Hey there, Daniel.

[Daniel Estrin]

Hi, Steve.

[Steve Inskeep]

So what does Israel's offensive look like as best you can determine?

[Daniel Estrin]

Well, Israeli strikes have expanded across Gaza. Israel has ordered a mass evacuation of civilians in southern Gaza in K. It's affecting around a quarter of Gaza's territory. According to the United Nations. A Palestinian journalist there has sent us footage of people fleeing by foot. One young man, Taher Farah, was carrying a big yellow water can on his shoulders and a pile of mattresses. It's no longer livable in this land, he says. No food, no drinking water, no education, no health care. Just displacement and humiliation and destruction. And every day we're dying, he says. And I want to just tell you a few details of some of those who were killed. A para cycling team in Gaza is Reporting their teammate, 33 year old Ahmed El Dali, was killed. And a colleague of ours from Gaza says his longtime neighbor Hatem Abu Samra, an older gentleman, he survived more than 19 months of war. He was just killed in a strike in his home in central Gaza. I should add there was a spontaneous march yesterday in Gaza where people were protesting the war and chanting anti Hamas slogans.

[Steve Inskeep]

Okay, so this interesting, that last detail. So this is the context in which three longtime allies of Israel, the U.K. france and Canada, are saying Israel should end all of this. How is Israel responding to that pressure?

[Daniel Estrin]

There is international pressure. Israel is responding to. It allowed in a small number of trucks of baby food into Gaza so far. That's after nearly three months of a blockade. Gaza on the brink of famine. The UN Says that's not enough. The leaders of the UK France and Canada put out that extraordinary statement you referred to. I want to read you a few line. They say the level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. The denial of essential supplies to civilians risks breaching international law. They say if Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift restrictions on aid, they're threatening to take action. Steve, this is a big shift in rhetoric from these major allies. And Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded saying their statement rewards Hamas.

[Steve Inskeep]

Well, why are ceasefire talks at an impasse?

[Daniel Estrin]

Well, the prime minister of Qatar, who is hosting the talks, says the talks have gone nowhere because of fundamental differences between Israel and Hamas. We've spoken to three people briefed on the talks, including an Egyptian official and a Hamas official. They spoke on condition of anonymity to give details. They say we are looking at the same long standing impasse. Israel wants a temporary ceasefire and the release of some hostages, and Hamas wants much more. They want international guarantees that a temporary ceasefire would lead to the permanent end of the war. And the people we spoke to said the US Refused to promise Hamas those guarantees. But we will have to see. Israeli and Hamas negotiators are still in Qatar.

[Steve Inskeep]

And NPR's Daniel Estrin is in Tel Aviv. Daniel, thanks so much.

[Daniel Estrin]

You're very welcome.

[Steve Inskeep]

Kentuckians are recovering from last weekend's tornadoes and they might be in for more dangerous weather today. According to the National Weather Service, much of Southern Kentucky is at high risk for a significant tornado just days after a burst of storms killed more than two dozen people in that state, as well as in Missouri and Virginia.

[Layla Falden]

Earlier this spring, another cluster of deadly tornadoes tore across eight states in the Midwest. So is climate change making tornadoes more frequent?

[Steve Inskeep]

It's a question we pose from time to time. And NPR Rebecca Hersher is here to talk through the evidence. Good morning.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Good morning.

[Steve Inskeep]

First, has this been a particularly bad spring for tornadoes?

[Rebecca Hersher]

Well, yes, it actually has. There have been more tornadoes than average, and that's according to data from the National Weather Service. So usually by this time in May, there have been a little over 600 tornadoes reported in the US but this year there have been more than 850 tornadoes. So significantly more.

[Steve Inskeep]

Okay, so is this just a bad year, or is there evidence that the frequency is increasing in a real way over time?

[Rebecca Hersher]

It's just a bad year. You know, the annual number of storms varies a lot year to year, so it's not surprising to have a really active year or two like this year. I spoke to a tornado expert about this. Her name is Melissa Widhelm, and she helps lead the Midwestern Regional Climate center at Purdue University.

[Melissa Widhelm]

There's not really an increase or a decrease in the overall number of tornadoes that we see. That number has been pretty stable, you.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Know, year after year. That's going back to the 1950s. But here's what is changing. She says big outbreaks of tornadoes, like the ones in Kentucky and Missouri over the weekend, those are getting more common, where lots of storms move over a really large area in a short period of time.

[Steve Inskeep]

Oh, this is interesting. And this is a thing that people have said about climate change, that you end up with more extreme weather events. So not more tornadoes total, but more of these clusters of tornadoes.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Yeah, exactly. And Woodhelm says those clusters, or outbreaks are a new phenomenon.

[Melissa Widhelm]

In the past, we didn't see the kind of large outbreak days that we do now. It used to be kind of unusual to see, you know, dozens of them in a day, and now we get that year after year.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Now she points out that warning people about those big clusters is really labor intensive. You know, it requires a lot of weather forecasters and radar data to track the storms as they move across multiple states, which is notable at a time when the Trump administration is cutting weather forecasting budgets. And there are a lot of vacancies in the National Weather Service. You know, during the outbreak over the weekend, the local weather service office in Jackson, Kentucky, had to borrow forecasters from other offices in the region because they didn't have enough staff on their own. And that's according to a statement from the National Weather Service.

[Steve Inskeep]

I appreciate that last detail. It is the National Weather Service acknowledging this in a statement. So let's try to figure out what's going on. We understand that climate change can lead to more extreme weather events. We have these more extreme weather events, but can we be a little more precise about the mechanics? Do scientists understand why big outbreaks of tornadoes are getting more common?

[Rebecca Hersher]

I wish I could say yes, but unfortunately, tornadoes are very complex. And this is just one of many unanswered questions about how they're changing, especially as the climate changes. You know, in general, climate change is causing more severe weather. As you said, one of the ingredients for a tornado is moist, warm air. So obviously as the atmosphere heats up, it makes sense that tornado conditions could show up more. There have been some studies that suggest that that there might be more tornadoes in the fall and winter as the earth heats up, as opposed to now when most tornadoes happen in the spring and summer. But it's really an area of active research.

[Steve Inskeep]

Rebecca, thanks so much.

[Rebecca Hersher]

Thanks.

[Steve Inskeep]

That's NPR's Rebecca Hersher. And that's up first for this Tuesday, May 20th. I'm Steve Inskeep.

[Layla Falden]

And I'm Laila Falden. The NPR app lets you keep public radio in your pocket. You'll find a mix of local, national and international news, plus the best podcasts from the NPR network. Download the NPR app in your App Store today.

[Steve Inskeep]

How do you hear it if it's in your pocket? Anyway, today's episode of up first was. Oh, thank you. Thanks for the reminder.

[Layla Falden]

Bluetooth.

[Steve Inskeep]

There we go. Today's up first was edited by Neela Banerjee, Ryland Barton, Kerry Kahn, Ali Schweitzer and Alice Wolfley. It was produced by Ziad Buch, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carly Strange. Join us again tomorrow.

[Layla Falden]

I feel like there are a lot of nice extra flourishes and all the nature.

[Steve Inskeep]

Thank you. I try to try to give people credit where I can.

[Ziad Buch]

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