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Kennedy Center Demolition Threat, Trump's Troubles, Poland Warns Of Russian Attacks

Sep 18, 2026 · 12m

Summary

NPR's Up First covers the escalating legal battle over the Kennedy Center, where a judge blocked President Trump from demolishing the building without 30 days' notice. The episode also details other institutional pushback, including the Supreme Court blocking mail-in voting restrictions and the Federal Reserve raising interest rates against Trump's wishes. Finally, it reports on Poland's warning that Russia may stage "accidental" drone strikes to test NATO's resolve.

Topics discussed

Intro: Kennedy Center dispute and other news Overview: Supreme Court, Fed rates, and Poland warning Kennedy Center: Judge blocks demolition without notice Interview: Anastasia Silius on court filings Trump threats and photo of demolition placard Trump audio: Threat to close or rip down center Context: History and prestige of the Kennedy Center Closure details and forklift incident report Lawsuits and request for independent monitor Impact on DC cultural landscape and free programming Interview: Danielle Kurtzleben on Trump setbacks Supreme Court blocks mail-in voting restrictions Fed raises rates despite Trump pressure Inflation, Iran war, and other ongoing issues Polling, GOP pushback, and diesel fuel prices Significance of institutional limits on power Future outlook: Midterms and post-Trump politics Poland PM Tusk warns of 'accidental' Russian strikes Interview: Seme Nicholson on Tusk's warning NATO Article 5 and intelligence sources Ukraine's critical months and European political shifts Rise of Russia-friendly parties in Europe NATO eastern flank risks and US base in Poland Recent hybrid attacks: Drones and sabotage Specific incidents in Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania Germany blames Russia for airport drone attempt Tusk calls for unity and resolute response Closing remarks and credits
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