Trump Cuts Funding for US Global Media Agencies, Libraries

President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at significantly cutting funding and operations at several federal agencies, including the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. This directive, part of Trump's broader effort to eliminate what he considers unnecessary government spending, has resulted in some employees being placed on paid leave as operations are reviewed. Critics and press freedom advocates argue that these cuts undermine the U.S. commitment to a free press, particularly in authoritarian regimes. The order requires agencies to submit compliance plans within seven days, detailing which operations are legally mandated. Trump's administration has faced backlash for targeting media outlets, which he has criticized for bias against him. The cuts also affect other agencies focused on minority business development and homelessness.