NPR News: 05-16-2026 4AM EDT

This episode of NPR News Now reports on a cluster of developments spanning U.S.-China diplomacy, domestic transportation and electoral disputes, a fresh Ebola outbreak in central Africa, and immediate market reactions to rising oil prices. The items reflect ongoing strains in international relations, labor-management conflicts, and public health monitoring without a single unifying thread.

Trump Returns From Beijing Meetings

President Trump concluded three days of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and headed back to the United States. The discussions centered on trade issues and the ongoing war with Iran. In a Fox News appearance, Trump stressed that the personal relationship between the two leaders had helped resolve multiple problems that others might have handled poorly. He described the bond as essential to deal-making even when it appears intangible. On the return flight, Trump indicated to reporters that he might reconsider a major arms package for Taiwan approved in December, noting that Taiwan had featured prominently in the Beijing conversations.