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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