The European Union (E.U.) has pledged emergency funding to aid Radio Free Europe following cuts to its financial support by the Trump administration, although the assistance may still fall short of the organization's needs.
E.U. Steps In to Support Radio Free Europe Amid U.S. Funding Cuts
E.U. Steps In to Support Radio Free Europe Amid U.S. Funding Cuts
The European Union announces emergency funds for Radio Free Europe as it faces financial uncertainty due to U.S. funding freezes.
Despite efforts by the U.S. District Court to secure federal funding for Radio Free Europe (RFE), recent actions taken by the Trump administration have led to its financial instability. On May 21, 2025, the E.U. revealed that it would provide 5.5 million euros (around $6.2 million) to help sustain RFE, which operates in countries with restricted press freedoms. This support comes as bipartisan concerns grow over the erosion of independent journalism.
Kaja Kallas, head of the E.U. foreign affairs, emphasized the importance of independent news in today's disinformation landscape, expressing hope that their contribution will temporarily support RFE's operations. However, she clarified that EU funds would only serve as a short-term measure, unable to cover the entire funding gap caused by the U.S. withdrawal.
President Trump has been directing a dismantling of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which traditionally allocated $12 million monthly to RFE. Following a recent federal appeals court decision, the Trump administration retains control over these funds despite opposition from RFE's leadership.
Stephen Capus, president of RFE/RL, expressed gratitude for the E.U.'s funding as a stopgap. He confirmed that the organization is actively seeking a court decision to reinstate the appropriated U.S. funds. RFE recently filed an emergency request with the U.S. District Court for necessary May funding, yet it has already been compelled to scale back programming and staff in light of delayed federal assistance.
Since its inception during the Cold War, RFE has played a critical role in uncovering truths about human rights violations and corruption in various countries, including Russia and Iran. Today, it transmits independent reports to 23 nations while continuing its fight for sustainability amid a tumultuous political climate.
Kaja Kallas, head of the E.U. foreign affairs, emphasized the importance of independent news in today's disinformation landscape, expressing hope that their contribution will temporarily support RFE's operations. However, she clarified that EU funds would only serve as a short-term measure, unable to cover the entire funding gap caused by the U.S. withdrawal.
President Trump has been directing a dismantling of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which traditionally allocated $12 million monthly to RFE. Following a recent federal appeals court decision, the Trump administration retains control over these funds despite opposition from RFE's leadership.
Stephen Capus, president of RFE/RL, expressed gratitude for the E.U.'s funding as a stopgap. He confirmed that the organization is actively seeking a court decision to reinstate the appropriated U.S. funds. RFE recently filed an emergency request with the U.S. District Court for necessary May funding, yet it has already been compelled to scale back programming and staff in light of delayed federal assistance.
Since its inception during the Cold War, RFE has played a critical role in uncovering truths about human rights violations and corruption in various countries, including Russia and Iran. Today, it transmits independent reports to 23 nations while continuing its fight for sustainability amid a tumultuous political climate.
