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1pm ET, October 17 | The latest headlines from NPR

Oct 17, 2026 · 4m

Summary

President Trump signed an executive order waiving new Russia sanctions, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers who view it as aiding Putin. Pope Leo returned to the Vatican after lung cancer surgery, with plans for his upcoming South American trip remaining intact. Markets saw mixed results amid rising inflation and a nearly $2 trillion federal deficit. Meanwhile, Trump campaigned in Kentucky ahead of midterms, while Iowa’s competitive Senate race between Ashley Hinton and Josh Turek heats up. Finally, a South Florida art dealer was sentenced to nearly four years in prison for selling fake …

Topics discussed

Sponsorship and show introduction Trump waives Russia sanctions via executive order Analysis of the Russia diesel deal and sanctions shift Republican criticism of the executive order Pope Leo returns to Vatican after lung cancer surgery Mixed week on Wall Street amid rising inflation Trump rallies in Republican states ahead of midterms Competitive race for Iowa's open Senate seat Art dealer sentenced for selling fake Warhol pieces
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