NPR News: 05-03-2026 12AM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from May 3, 2026, covers a diverse set of developments: U.S. foreign policy moves on Iran and Europe, a domestic security incident in Portland, the U.S. economy's debt milestone, Russian strikes in Ukraine, changes to Academy Awards rules, and a Kentucky Derby upset.

Trump on Iran Proposal and Expanded Germany Troop Drawdown

President Trump stated he is reviewing Tehran's latest proposal to end the war in Iran but expects to reject it. In comments to reporters on Saturday, he also revealed that the U.S. troop drawdown in Germany will exceed the 5,000 soldiers announced by the Pentagon the previous day. The move follows criticism of the Iran war by Germany's chancellor. Beyond the withdrawals, the U.S. is canceling a planned deployment of a battalion equipped for long-range strikes in Europe. NATO spokesperson Alison Hart responded via social media, noting the alliance is coordinating with the U.S. to clarify details. She emphasized ongoing shifts where Europe assumes greater responsibility for NATO security, including higher military spending, while expressing confidence in maintained deterrence and defense.