BRUSSELS — On Tuesday, ministers from the European Union engaged in discussions regarding strategies to sustain Radio Free Europe in light of the Trump administration halting funding to the pro-democracy broadcasting service over the past weekend.
Established during the Cold War, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty provides broadcasts in 27 languages, reaching audiences in 23 nations across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
Jessica Rozencrantz, Sweden’s European Affairs Minister, emphasized the urgency of maintaining Radio Free Europe as a critical advocate for freedom and democracy, particularly in regions where it is sorely needed.
“Sweden calls on all countries and the European Commission to explore how we can finance the continued strength of Radio Free Europe,” Rozencrantz conveyed to reporters before the meeting in Brussels.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot expressed via social media that the funding cut threatens independent journalism in territories where freedoms of the press are suppressed, including Russia, Belarus, Iran, and Afghanistan. Prevot warned that such an absence might exacerbate the spread of disinformation and propaganda, paving an easier path for democracy’s adversaries.
The recent budget cuts are part of a broader decision by President Donald Trump’s administration aimed at significantly reducing allocations to Voice of America and similar government-affiliated pro-democracy initiatives.
Stephen Capus, President and CEO of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, remarked in a statement that ending the grant agreement would substantially benefit those opposing democratic values.
The European Commission is investigating how these funding reductions will affect U.S.-supported media operating within Europe to determine how any financial shortfalls might be addressed.
“Access to unbiased information is vital,” noted EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šef?ovi? following the meeting. However, he acknowledged Radio Free Europe isn’t the only project impacted by the cuts, indicating ongoing evaluations of broader financial repercussions.
On Monday, Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief, reflected on the significant impact Radio Free Europe had during her youth in Soviet-controlled Estonia. “It’s disappointing to hear about the U.S. pulling its funding,” she commented post-meeting of EU foreign ministers.
“Growing up behind the Iron Curtain, the radio was a key information source,” Kallas added, noting its historical role as a democratic beacon.
Kallas acknowledged that finding replacement funding for the network is challenging. “It’s complex as many organizations now seek similar support,” she noted.
The Czech Republic, home to Radio Free Europe’s operations for the past 25 years despite its central administration being in Washington, is at the forefront of efforts to preserve the broadcaster’s existence. Kaja Kallas mentioned that there’s a strong impetus among foreign ministers to discuss feasible solutions.
