Trump's VOA Cuts Applauded by China, Critics Warn of Risks

U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to cut funding for Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S.-backed media has drawn mixed reactions. While China’s Foreign Ministry avoided direct comment, it criticized VOA’s reporting on China. State-run Global Times mocked the cuts, calling VOA “discarded by its own government.” Critics, including Reporters Without Borders, warn authoritarian regimes like China may exploit the gap left by U.S. media. Cambodian ex-leader Hun Sen praised the move, while U.S. lawmakers fear it weakens America’s ability to counter China’s propaganda and support press freedom in authoritarian countries.