The Trump administration has taken a dramatic swing at Voice of America (VOA), moving to cut nearly 500 of its employees.
For an outlet born in World War II to fight Nazi propaganda and later transformed into one of America’s biggest global broadcasters. It’s a stunning shake-up.
The move comes as part of President Trump’s push to trim what the White House brands a “radical” operation.
Kari Lake, acting CEO of VOA’s parent agency USAGM, defended the cuts, saying they would “reduce bureaucracy” and save taxpayer money.
Employees Vow To Keep Fighting
But critics aren’t buying it. A union representing employees slammed the firings as “illegal.”
VOA isn’t just another newsroom. Broadcasting in almost 50 languages, it has long been a tool of American soft power.
Now, with USAGM planning to slash 532 positions—most from VOA—the outlet could shrink to just over 100 staff.
Lawsuits have already piled up, with a federal judge recently ruling the administration botched its attempt to fire VOA’s director.
Critics warn this is more than a bureaucratic shuffle—it’s an assault on press freedom.
“We find Lake’s continued attacks on our agency abhorrent,” employees said, vowing to keep fighting.
So, is this really about efficiency—or is America sidelining one of its own most powerful voices abroad?
