Trump Administration Shuts Down Voice of America and Affiliated Media Outlets

The move halts decades of U.S.-funded independent journalism, drawing bipartisan criticism and raising concerns about global press freedom.

• President Donald Trump signed an executive order dismantling the U.S. Agency for Global Media, effectively silencing Voice of America and other outlets like Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia.
• Over 1,300 employees have been placed on administrative leave, and broadcasts in multiple regions have either stopped or been replaced with non-news content.
• Critics warn the shutdown weakens U.S. soft power and aids authoritarian regimes such as China and Russia, which have celebrated the move.
• European leaders are exploring ways to partially fund Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty to maintain its operations, though no decisions have been finalized.
• Press freedom organizations have condemned the decision, citing risks to journalists' safety and the loss of independent reporting in repressive regions.

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