In a sweeping move, the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has cut funding for Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and other government-backed media programs that promote democracy worldwide. The decision, which effectively halts operations at these outlets, has drawn criticism from both domestic and international figures.
Voice of America Goes Silent After 83 Years
The U.S. Global Media Agency (USAGM), which oversees these government-funded news networks, placed all Voice of America staff on administrative leave following Trump’s directive. The move comes just after Congress approved its latest funding bill, with Trump instructing his administration to scale down several agencies to their legally mandated minimum functions.
Michael Abramowitz, director of VOA, described the shutdown as historic and alarming. “For the first time in 83 years, the illustrious Voice of America has gone silent,” he said in a statement. He emphasized that VOA has played a crucial role in promoting freedom and democracy by providing objective news, particularly to people living under oppressive regimes.
Political and International Reactions
The decision has sparked outrage both in the U.S. and abroad. Jan Lipavský, the Czech Republic’s foreign minister, announced that he would raise concerns about the cuts at the Council of Europe, emphasizing that Radio Free Europe remains one of the few reliable news sources in authoritarian countries like Iran, Belarus, and Afghanistan.
The international media watchdog Reporters Without Borders condemned the move, calling it “a departure from the historic role of the United States as a defender of free information.” The organization urged Congress and the global community to take action against what it described as an unprecedented attack on press freedom.
Cost-Cutting Measures and Staff Layoffs
Carey Lake, a former Arizona gubernatorial and U.S. Senate candidate appointed by Trump as a senior adviser to USAGM, defended the decision, citing cost-cutting as the primary motive. In a video posted on social media, Lake criticized the agency’s spending, particularly on office leases, and vowed to cancel contracts where possible to save taxpayer dollars.
Meanwhile, notices were sent out terminating grants for Radio Free Asia and other related programs. Employees were instructed to return government-issued equipment, including phones and computers, and barred from using agency facilities.
Impact on U.S. Global Influence
Critics warn that the funding cuts will significantly weaken America’s ability to counter authoritarian propaganda. Stephen Capus, president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, called the decision “a huge gift to America’s enemies.” The networks collectively reach approximately 427 million people worldwide, broadcasting news in multiple languages to regions with restricted media access.
Thomas Kent, former president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, noted that without these outlets, the United States risks losing control over its global narrative. “Without international broadcasting, the image of the U.S. and the Trump administration will be shaped by adversaries who see America as an enemy,” he cautioned.
Broader Government Downsizing
In addition to defunding pro-democracy media, Trump’s directive also included cuts to other government programs, such as the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, and the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund.
The move signals a sharp shift in U.S. foreign policy and media strategy, raising concerns about the long-term impact on press freedom, international diplomacy, and America’s influence in the global information landscape.
