90% of Ukrainian Media Faces Funding Crisis from USAID

A recent report highlights that approximately 90% of Ukrainian news outlets rely on funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which has become a focal point of criticism from figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. USAID has funded over 6,200 journalists and nearly 700 independent newsrooms globally, raising concerns about the implications of taxpayer money supporting media in foreign countries. The Trump administration's freeze on $268 million in foreign aid has created uncertainty for many international media organizations, with some reporting chaos and confusion as a result. In Ukraine, the advertising market plummeted by 92% following the Russian invasion, making USAID's financial support critical for the survival of local media. Experts warn that cuts to this funding could weaken democratic structures in Ukraine, where martial law currently prevents new elections. While some argue that this funding bolsters regime-friendly media, others see it as essential for maintaining journalistic integrity in conflict zones.