Giles Snyder

The administration's been ramping up pressure on the communist government to change its system, as NPR's Michelle Kellerman reports.

Also in Washington, the U.S.

Commission of Fine Arts has approved the design plan for President Trump's 250-foot arch across the National Mall.

NPR's Rachel Triesman reports.

And you're listening to NPR News.

A federal judge today sentenced a Minnesota woman to 42 years in prison for leading what prosecutors say was the nation's largest COVID fraud scheme.

Matt Sepik of Minnesota Public Radio reports Amy Bach among dozens of defendants convicted in the case.

SpaceX says it may try again tomorrow.

The private space company scrubbed a test launch set for today in Texas of a bigger version of the company's Starship.

The countdown clock got within 30 seconds before the decision to scrub was made.

A series of problems forced the delay as SpaceX prepares to go public in what could be the largest IPO ever.

The premier of the Canadian province of Alberta, Danielle Smith, says voters will be asked this fall whether it's time to leave Canada.

In a primetime address earlier tonight, though, Smith said the referendum will not trigger separation, but rather it would start the legal process toward a binding vote.

She said her preference is to remain.

This is NPR News.

Live from NPR News, I'm Giles Snyder.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanch is defending the Trump administration's creation of a new nearly $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.

Amid concerns those prosecuted for their part in the January 6th Capitol riot could claim a payout.

Blanche spoke with CNN Wednesday, the same day that two police officers who defended the Capitol during the riot sued to stop the administration from paying rioters.

Blanche said the conduct of anyone who attacked law enforcement would be factored into any payout decision.