Up First from NPR National Guard Shooting & Immigration, Venezuela Latest, Ukraine Negotiations
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Dec 1, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Jimena Bustillo, an immigration policy reporter, uncovers the White House's new measures on asylum and visa reviews following a tragic shooting in D.C. John Otis, covering Latin America, sheds light on U.S. strikes in the Caribbean and Venezuela's sharp reactions. Meanwhile, Charles Maines reports from Moscow on the complex, ongoing negotiations regarding Ukraine's peace talks. Each guest provides vital insights, highlighting the intertwining of policy and current events across borders.
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U.S. Tightens Immigration Vetting After Shooting
- The administration paused asylum decisions and heightened vetting for applicants from 19 countries, including Afghanistan.
- USCIS will also review refugees already admitted under Biden, potentially reopening their cases and rescinding status.
Refugee Status Reopened For Reassessment
- A USCIS memo directs re-interviewing refugees admitted under the Biden administration and assessing who can "fully and appropriately assimilate."
- Advocates warn this review destabilizes families and could remove protections for people already living in the U.S.
Controversy Over Lethal Boat Strikes
- U.S. strikes sank 21 boats and killed 83 people amid claims they were drug-trafficking vessels, but public evidence remains limited.
- Lawmakers and the U.N. say some strikes may violate international law and could amount to war crimes if verified.