EU to release 5.5 million for Radio Free Europe, deprived of Donald Trump's aid

Brussels is coming to the rescue of the media outlet previously funded by the US Congress . The European Union will release €5.5 million to help Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) continue its operations after the US suspended its funding , EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Tuesday. "This sum will support the vital work of Radio Free Europe," Kallas told reporters after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels. "This is short-term emergency funding designed as a safety net for independent journalism," she added.

US President Donald Trump suspended funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in March, along with funding for other US broadcasters, including Voice of America, as part of his push to cut government spending. RFE/RL, which employs more than 1,700 people, challenged the decision in court and obtained a temporary restraining order last week.

However, the US authorities have so far refused to send the money the radio station needs. Mr. Kallas clarified that the funding provided by the EU would not be able to cover the radio station's work worldwide, but would focus on countries in regions such as the Caucasus and Central Asia. "It is clear that Europe cannot provide all the necessary funds," she acknowledged.