The News Roundup For February 28, 2025

The so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, posted a list of "receipts," of government misspending on federal contracts. After reporters found multiple inaccuracies, the department quietly deleted five of its biggest examples of savings.

Several House Republicans are cancelling constituent town halls following backlash at previous events across the country.

Meanwhile, overseas, this week marked three years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. European leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited Kyiv in a show of support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The right won the German elections held on Sunday, in its best showing in decades. The AfD party, Alternative for Germany, the country's most anti-immigration party, made historic gains.

Tensions are simmering between Israel and Hamas. The two sides find themselves in a standoff over hostage body and prisoner exchanges. The handover would complete the first phase of ceasefire which expires this weekend.

Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Connect with us. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NPR Privacy Policy