President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze funding for US-backed media outlets has caused a wave of criticism. This move affects major outlets like Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). These organizations have correspondents across key regions like Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
On Saturday, the administration ordered journalists from these outlets to stop working. Many of them were placed on leave. Michael Abramowitz, VOA’s director, expressed his concern. He noted that VOA is being silenced for the first time in 83 years. Over 1,300 employees, including Abramowitz, are now on administrative leave.
Trump administration’s concerns over media bias
Trump signed an executive order on Friday, targeting several agencies, including the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM). USAGM oversees VOA, RFE/RL, Radio Free Asia, and the Office of Cuba Broadcasting. Trump’s goal is to halt funding for these organizations. He accuses them of bias in their reporting.
Kari Lake, a senior adviser to USAGM, criticized the agency. She said it is “a massive burden” on taxpayers. The White House also defended its decision, claiming it would prevent “radical propaganda.”
Global reactions and condemnations
International organizations have strongly condemned the freeze. Reporters Without Borders argued that the decision marks a break from the US’s historic role in defending free speech. The group has urged both the US Congress and the global community to challenge the move.
Stephen Capus, President and CEO of RFE/RL, expressed deep concern. He said the funding cut would benefit America’s adversaries. “The Iranian Ayatollahs, Chinese communist leaders, and autocrats in Moscow and Minsk would celebrate the end of RFE/RL after 75 years,” Capus stated.
The role of VOA and RFE/RL in US global influence
VOA, founded in 1942, has been crucial for US communication worldwide. Its 1976 charter stresses that “the long-range interests of the United States are served by communicating directly with the peoples of the world.” Laws in the 1990s and 2010s protect VOA from government interference.
Earlier this month, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) imposed a 30-day freeze on USAGM funding. This freeze could lead to permanent cuts in government support for these media outlets.
Critics argue that Trump’s move weakens the US’s commitment to free speech and press freedom. As the situation continues, many are questioning whether this marks a shift in US policy on global media influence.
