Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty has been rescued from immediate closure thanks to a crucial intervention by the European Union. The broadcaster faced a severe financial crisis after the Trump administration terminated its funding, citing alleged liberal bias. This action prompted a swift response from the EU.
The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, announced a €5.5 million contract to “support the vital work of Radio Free Europe.” While the EU cannot fully replace the lost US funding, Ms. Kallas confirmed that this aid will focus on maintaining operations in countries bordering the EU, specifically those heavily dependent on outside news sources. This includes RFE’s substantial base in the Czech Republic.
This short-term emergency funding serves as a vital safety net for independent journalism in a region where access to unbiased information is critically important. The funding follows a temporary restraining order issued by US District Judge Royce Lamberth in March, which prevented the Trump administration from immediately shutting down the broadcaster due to the potential for irreparable harm.