NPR News: 06-24-2026 10PM EDT

Ryland Barton· Host0:00

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Ryland Barton. Venezuelan acting president Delcy Rodriguez has announced a state of emergency after two strong earthquakes struck the country, causing major damage in the capital, Caracas. Simon Bolivar International Airport, serving Caracas, has been closed due to severe damage. There is no immediate reports of death, but scientists are estimating high casualties. John Otis has more.

John Otis0:24

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck about 100 miles west of Caracas, followed by a 7.5 magnitude quake less than a minute later. The U.S. Geological Survey said that, quote, "High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread." Video footage from Venezuela showed fire trucks on the streets of Caracas and rescue workers combing through the ruins of collapsed buildings. There was also extensive damage reported at the country's main international airport on the outskirts of Caracas. For NPR News, I'm John Otis.

Ryland Barton· Host1:03

Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy says President Trump attempted to bully him during a closed-door meeting with Senate Republicans on Capitol Hill today. He told NPR's Eric McDaniel Trump was frustrated about a resolution passed by Congress yesterday that calls on Trump to end the Iran war.

Eric McDaniel1:19

President Trump recently backed a successful primary challenge against Bill Cassidy, and as a lame duck, Cassidy has been less restrained with the war in Iran, for example.

Bill Cassidy· Soundbite1:28

It's not going as well as we're being told,