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NPR News: 05-13-2026 6PM EDT

May 13, 2026

AI Summary

5 min read

President Trump's state visit to Beijing occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing US war with Iran, with ripple effects on global shipping and trade. The NPR News Now episode also covers a new analysis of US student learning trends, a Federal Reserve leadership change, Vatican disciplinary moves, a ransomware resolution in education tech, and a rare wildlife milestone in Chicago.

Trump in Beijing and Iran Tensions

President Trump arrived in Beijing for talks with President Xi Jinping, following a delay caused by the US conflict with Iran. China maintains close alliance and trade ties with Iran, where the US has conducted weeks of bombing and imposed a blockade on all connected ships. Questions persist about potential Chinese assistance to Iran, though Trump downplayed any need for China's help as he departed Washington, insisting he required nothing from them on the Iran front. This contrasts with his earlier social media post urging China to aid in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting possible posturing ahead of the summit. The visit highlights how the war complicates US-China relations, with the Hormuz closure forcing global shipping adjustments.

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What you'll learn

  • 1 (00:00) **Trump Arrives in Beijing** - President Trump's state visit amid US war with Iran and China's alliance with Tehran
  • 2 (00:32) **Trump Downplays China Role** - Trump insists no need for Chinese help on Iran despite prior social media plea to reopen Strait of Hormuz
  • 3 (01:03) **Panama Canal Surge** - Transits up 10% with tanker traffic jumping 29% as ships avoid Hormuz
  • 4 (01:56) **US Student Learning Decline** - Math/reading scores in recession since 2013, predating COVID per Stanford/Harvard/Dartmouth report
  • 5 (02:23) **Education Scorecard Insights** - Steady decline over decade; theories include abandoned federal law and rising social media use
  • 6 (02:58) **Kevin Walsh Confirmed as Fed Chair** - Senate vote approves Walsh to succeed Jerome Powell
  • 7 (03:00) **Vatican Warns Traditionalists** - Final warning to Society of St. Pius X against consecrating bishops without Pope Leo's consent

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Show Notes

NPR News: 05-13-2026 6PM EDT

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