Radio Free Europe Sues USAGM Over Federal Grant Termination

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration and the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to contest the termination of federal grants that Congress appropriated for the organization. The lawsuit, submitted to the District Court for the District of Columbia, argues that the cuts violate federal laws and the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress exclusive authority over federal spending. RFE/RL's President Stephen Capus emphasized the importance of the organization in providing uncensored news in countries facing media restrictions and warned that without the funding, RFE/RL would be forced to cease operations. The funding cuts have sparked backlash from press freedom advocates and prompted discussions among European Union officials about potential support for RFE/RL. The case highlights broader concerns regarding the administration's approach to independent journalism and media funding. Critics, including human rights organizations, view these cuts as a move that could empower authoritarian propaganda.