WASHINGTON, D.C. — A U.S. federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration's attempt to shut down U.S.-funded international media outlets, including Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia (RFA), and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks. The judge ordered that funding and operations be fully restored and that all staff return to work.
The decision, handed down by Judge Royce Lamberth, found that the abrupt shutdown of these media organizations violated both federal law and constitutional protections. Lamberth emphasized that the closures were unjustified and unconstitutional, as Congress had specifically mandated these agencies to promote values like press freedom and freedom of expression around the world.
The legal action followed a controversial executive order issued by former President Donald Trump on March 14, 2025, which called for the dissolution of VOA and other U.S.-funded broadcasters. Trump justified the order by citing budget concerns and claiming that Europe no longer needed such services, stating that it is now “peaceful and full of democracy.”
Judge Lamberth strongly criticized this reasoning, noting that such institutions cannot be disbanded without due cause—especially when their mission is supported by congressional intent. He described the decision as an unprecedented disruption in VOA's 80-year history.
At this time, the Trump administration has not indicated whether it will appeal the court’s ruling.
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