Federal Judge Trump Administration's Dismantling of Voice of America

The court's temporary restraining order halts layoffs and funding cuts, citing violations of federal law and Congressional mandates.

U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Trump administration from shutting down Voice of America (VOA) and related broadcasters.
The judge ruled that the administration's actions violated federal law by failing to adhere to Congressional mandates and statutory requirements for VOA's operations.
More than 1,200 VOA employees, previously placed on administrative leave, are temporarily protected from termination, though the agency remains largely offline.
Funding has been partially restored to other U.S.-backed broadcasters like Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Free Asia following similar legal challenges.
Critics argue the shutdown attempt undermines press freedom and U.S. influence, with lawsuits ongoing to determine the future of VOA and related entities.