EU Raises Concerns Over US Defunding of Radio Free Europe and Voice of America

European leaders warn that halting US-funded media operations could weaken democratic values and benefit authoritarian regimes.

President Donald Trump's administration has frozen funding for US-backed media outlets, including Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
The European Union has criticized the decision, emphasizing the importance of these outlets as sources of reliable information in authoritarian regions such as Russia, Belarus, and Iran.
Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky plans to discuss the future of RFE/RL at an EU foreign ministers' meeting, stressing its significance for Europe and democracy worldwide.
The funding freeze comes as authoritarian states like Russia, China, and Iran continue to expand their state-controlled media to counter Western narratives.
The Prague-based RFE/RL, which broadcasts to 23 countries, has been described by its CEO as a critical voice for freedom and democracy, now at risk of being silenced.