9:45 am today

USA correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben

From Nine To Noon, 9:45 am today

Millions joined the global 'No Kings' protests this weekend - as dissent towards the Trump presidency grows.

Meanwhile, Trump's recent calls with Putin and Zelenskyy have raised eyebrows, with his stance on arming Ukraine softening after his conversation with the Russian leader. And as the government shutdown drags into its 20th day, workers are missing paychecks and Trump shows little urgency to end it, instead mocking Democrats and threatening selective payments while pushing ahead with layoffs.    

Protesters rally during the "No Kings" national day of protest in Los Angeles, California on October 18, 2025. From New York to San Francisco, millions of Americans are expected to hit the streets to voice their anger over President Donald Trump's policies at nationwide "No Kings" protests. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP)

Protesters rally during the "No Kings" national day of protest in Los Angeles, California. Photo: AFP / FREDERIC J. BROWN

Danielle Kurtzleben is a political correspondent assigned to NPR's Washington Desk.