Trump Freezes Voice of America Amid Global Information Crisis

President Donald Trump has effectively shut down the Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S.-funded broadcasters, placing hundreds of journalists on leave and halting operations critical for countering foreign disinformation. The decision follows an executive order designating the U.S. Agency for Global Media as unnecessary, leading to the termination of contracts with major news agencies and a significant reduction in funding. Kari Lake, appointed to lead VOA, stated the cuts would save taxpayer money while critics argue it undermines U.S. influence abroad. VOA's director expressed concern that the shutdown compromises its mission to provide unbiased news to a global audience of 360 million. Advocates warn that dismantling these media outlets cedes airwaves to adversaries like China and Russia. The abrupt halt has already led to several local-language stations switching to music instead of news broadcasts.