**Chinese Media Praises Trump's Cuts to Voice of America Funding**

**The recent decision by Donald Trump to cut public funding for Voice of America and Radio Free Asia has sparked significant reactions both in China and within the U.S., highlighting a clash of ideologies and the implications for global journalism.**

Chinese state media has expressed strong approval of the recent budget cuts to U.S. news agencies such as Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA), following Donald Trump's executive order to reduce public funding for these organizations. The measure has immediate repercussions, with around 1,300 employees at VOA being placed on paid leave as a result. The Washington-based news outlets, known for their critical reporting on authoritarian regimes, are facing significant operational challenges due to the loss of financial support.

The Global Times, a prominent state-run newspaper in China, characterized VOA as a "lie factory" and welcomed the cuts, claiming that they indicate a loss of credibility within U.S. journalism. The newspaper also criticized the network's past coverage of China, stating that it has now been "discarded by its own government." Meanwhile, the White House justified the cuts by stating a commitment to prevent taxpayer money from funding what it deems "radical propaganda."

Trump's cuts are aimed at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees several international broadcasting services. Critics argue that this move marks a significant setback for press freedom and supports authoritarian regimes that seek to suppress independent journalism. RFA, known for reporting on human rights abuses in China and other nations, remains a vital source of information for marginalized populations, despite prevalent censorship.

Former VOA journalist Valdya Baraputri expressed concern that eliminating these outlets will empower news channels that do not adhere to principles of accurate reporting. The National Press Club echoed these concerns, stating that the executive order undermines the U.S.'s long-standing commitment to a free and independent press.

Although VOA and RFA have faced operational setbacks, they have historically provided essential reporting in regions lacking independent media. Founded during World War II, VOA has grown to deliver content in almost 50 languages and reaches approximately 360 million people each week. RFA, which targets audiences in East and Southeast Asia, has garnered acclaim for its investigative journalism on sensitive issues.

The implications of Trump's decision extend beyond mere budget cuts; critics argue that it is a blow to the ideals of democracy. RFA's leadership voiced intention to challenge the order, stating that cutting funding to these outlets effectively rewards oppressive regimes that wish to control the narrative.

Views from exile communities and journalists underscore the dire consequences of such government actions. Dissidents have expressed concern for their safety and the survival of free speech globally, emphasizing the vital role that independent journalism plays in the struggle against authoritarianism. Observers worry that silencing these voices may lead to increased oppression and misinformation.

As Chinese state media celebrates the outcome, the true sentiment of the citizens in China remains unclear due to rigorous government censorship. In contrast, many listeners of VOA and RFA outside China find the cuts disheartening, recalling the platforms' historical contributions to amplifying voices for democracy and human rights.

As this story unfolds, the implications for global journalism and the fight for press freedom remain critical in the face of rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics.