Trump Administration Cuts Funding to US-Funded International Broadcasters

The move halts operations at Voice of America, Radio Free Europe, and Radio Free Asia, limiting access to independent news in autocratic states.

President Donald Trump issued an executive order on March 14, directing significant budget cuts to the United States Agency for Global Media, which oversees international broadcasters like Voice of America (VOA).
The decision has resulted in the immediate furlough of over 1,300 VOA employees and the planned termination of programs in more than 60 languages that reach millions globally.
Critics, including media freedom organizations, warn that the shutdowns will empower authoritarian regimes in countries like China, Russia, and Iran by silencing a key source of independent journalism.
Historical context highlights the broadcasters' role in delivering uncensored news to regions with restricted press freedom, such as during the Cold War and the Tiananmen Square protests.
Concerns have been raised about the potential misuse of sensitive information from journalist devices, especially in nations like Vietnam where press freedom is severely curtailed.