Up First from NPR Ukraine Talks, U.S. Health Agency Cuts, NYC Mayor Eric Adams Fallout
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Feb 18, 2025 High-stakes U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia aim to tackle the Ukraine conflict, but Ukrainian voices are notably absent. Meanwhile, the Trump administration's drastic cuts to federal health agencies lead to significant layoffs, raising concerns about public health. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams faces mounting pressure as four key aides resign, igniting political chaos. Amidst this turmoil, the Justice Department's controversial decision to dismiss corruption charges against Adams raises eyebrows, with him defiantly claiming political motivations behind the scrutiny.
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Ukraine War Talks
- The U.S. and Russia are holding high-stakes talks in Saudi Arabia to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine.
- Ukraine is not invited, raising concerns about decisions made without their involvement.
US Health Agency Cuts
- The Trump administration is cutting jobs at federal health agencies, including the FDA, CDC, and NIH.
- Over 1,000 employees have been fired, impacting essential health services.
Critique of CDC Job Cuts
- Steve Monroe, a retired CDC official, criticizes the agency's approach to firing employees.
- He notes that it seems short-sighted to fire people solely based on their probationary status.