Trump Freezes Operations at VOA, Radio Free Europe, Radio Free Asia

On March 15, President Donald Trump's administration put more than 1,300 journalists and staff at Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S.-funded broadcasters on leave, marking a significant reduction in funding for these media outlets that serve as crucial sources of independent news in authoritarian regimes. The executive order targeted the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees VOA, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), and Radio Free Asia, effectively halting their operations. Michael Abramowitz, VOA's director, expressed deep concern over the silencing of the organization, which has been a key player in promoting democracy for 83 years. Critics, including RFE/RL's president, labeled the funding cuts as a