Trump Halts Operations of U.S.-Funded International Media Outlets

The administration has placed over 2,000 employees on leave, citing budget cuts, sparking concerns over press freedom and global democratic support.

The Trump administration has suspended operations of U.S.-funded broadcasters like Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe, affecting over 2,000 employees globally.
Employees were informed via email that they are barred from accessing offices and must return press credentials and equipment immediately.
The move follows a presidential decree labeling the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees these outlets, as an 'unnecessary' part of the federal bureaucracy.
Critics, including Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists, warn the decision undermines press freedom and weakens U.S. influence in authoritarian regions.
The closures could face legal challenges, as the U.S. Congress, which has historically supported these media outlets, holds final authority over their funding.