Overview of NPR News Now Headlines for November 11
NPR’s hourly update covers a failed effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, renewed calls to restrict China’s access to advanced AI chips, and a preliminary ExxonMobil agreement with Venezuela. It also reports on a deadly Ebola outbreak, Ukraine peace talks, drowsy-driving risks, and gains in Asian and European markets.
U.S. Politics and Technology
- Hegseth called Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie’s impeachment effort a political stunt. House Republicans blocked the resolution from consideration by a 211–204 vote. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats may revisit impeachment when they take control of Congress in January.
- Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Congress to advance legislation limiting China’s access to advanced American chips. He cited reports that Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was targeted by an alleged Chinese spy. The New York Times reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio briefed President Trump about Huang’s relationship with a woman believed to be a Chinese spy during a May trip to China.
Venezuela Oil Agreement
ExxonMobil signed a preliminary agreement with Venezuela’s government that could pave the way for its return to the country’s oil fields. The company called it a meaningful first step, while saying future investment will depend on clear regulations and strong protections. Venezuela seized billions of dollars’ worth of ExxonMobil assets in 2007.
Health and Road Safety
- Government figures put the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo at 11,042 confirmed infections and more than 5,300 deaths. Officials say it involves a rare strain with no approved treatments or vaccines.
- A National Sleep Foundation report found that 61% of drivers admit to driving while sleepy, and drowsy driving contributes to about 20% of deadly U.S. vehicle crashes. Frequent blinking and yawning can be early warning signs; struggling to keep your eyes open, nodding off, or drifting across lanes are reasons to pull over.
Ukraine and Markets
Negotiators were expected to meet for a second day in Abu Dhabi for U.S.-mediated talks between Kyiv and Moscow—the first such talks since February. In markets, European stocks opened higher after gains in Asia; Taiwan’s shares rose more than 3%, while South Korea’s climbed 2.6%.