Donald Trump ‘Shuts Down’ US International Media Outlets

The Trump administration has placed the staff of radio networks such as Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe on indefinite leave. This move by Donald Trump abruptly halts the activities of US international media outlets considered democratic counterweights in countries like Russia and China. Hundreds of journalists and other employees at these organizations received emails informing them that access to their offices is prohibited, and they were instructed to return their press credentials, work phones, and other equipment. The announcement, which was harshly criticized by press freedom advocacy groups, came a day after Trump issued an order denouncing the government service overseeing these media entities (USAGM) as redundant parts of federal bureaucracy. A White House press representative sarcastically tweeted “back soon” in 20 different languages alongside the announcement about Voice of America, which operates in numerous countries and boasts a weekly audience of 350 million according to USAGM data. The head of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty described the funding cuts as a “tremendous gift to America’s enemies.” Iranian ayatollahs, Chinese communist leaders, and dictators in Moscow and Minsk must be thrilled about the disappearance of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty after 75 years of operation,” stated Stephen Capus in a press release. Established in 1996, Radio Free Asia aimed to deliver uncensored reports to countries with restricted press freedom, including China, Myanmar, North Korea, and Vietnam.