Trump officials backtrack on defunding a key U.S.-supported media outlet after a federal court challenges the legality of its shutdown.
At a Glance
- The Trump administration has restored funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) after initial termination.
- A federal judge temporarily blocked the administration’s attempt to cut RFE/RL’s funding.
- The U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) retains the authority to terminate funding in the future.
- RFE/RL argued that the funding cut was unconstitutional and that its operations serve the public interest.
Temporary Reprieve for RFE/RL
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) faced a potential shutdown after the Trump administration terminated its funding on March 15, 2025, as part of broader government downsizing efforts. However, following legal action and a federal judge’s intervention, the administration has reversed its decision and restored the broadcaster’s funding.
The U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), RFE/RL’s parent organization, informed the broadcaster on March 26 that the termination order had been rescinded. This move followed a temporary restraining order issued by U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth, who emphasized that “the continued operation of RFE/RL is in the public interest.”
Legal Challenges and Court Support
RFE/RL had filed a lawsuit arguing that the funding cut violated the U.S. Constitution, as Congress had appropriated funds for its operations. The court’s intervention underscores the judiciary’s role in upholding legislative intent and ensuring that executive actions align with constitutional provisions.
Stephen Capus, RFE/RL’s President and CEO, expressed optimism, stating, “This is an encouraging sign that RFE/RL’s operations will be able to continue, as Congress intended,” according to Axios.
Ongoing Concerns and Implications
Despite the restoration of funding, concerns remain about the stability of U.S.-backed international broadcasters. The USAGM retains the authority to terminate funding in the future, leaving organizations like RFE/RL vulnerable to policy shifts.
Additionally, other broadcasters such as Radio Free Asia (RFA) have faced similar challenges. RFA filed a lawsuit to block the termination of its funding, highlighting the broader implications of the administration’s efforts to reduce support for international media outlets.
Lawmakers and rights advocates argue that cutting funding to these broadcasters undermines U.S. soft power and hampers efforts to counter propaganda in regions with limited press freedom. As these legal battles unfold, the future of U.S.-supported international broadcasting remains uncertain.
Watch coverage of the RFE/RL funding restoration.
