Czechia pledges support to Radio Free Europe after Trump's funding cuts

The Czech government has vowed to do everything possible to ensure the continued operations of Prague-based broadcaster Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). The promise comes a week after the Trump administration announced funding cuts to the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), parent company of Voice of America and Radio Free Europe.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala told the Financial Times that his government would back the station in its mission following cuts to its funding. RFE/RL has been broadcasting from its headquarters in Prague since 1995, but now faces an uncertain future.

RFE/RL’s significance extends beyond the Cold War era, when it provided vital news in the communist bloc. Today, its role is considered crucial in countering disinformation from countries like Russia and Iran. Fiala expressed personal attachment to the station, recalling how its broadcasts helped him during the oppressive Communist regime.

Prime Minister Fiala has stressed that the Czech Republic stands firm in its commitment to ensuring RFE/RL can continue its mission in Prague.

"We will do everything that we can to give them the chance to continue in this very important role," Fiala told the Financial Times. He pointed out that RFE/RL’s historical importance, both during the Cold War and in present-day international relations.

‘‘I know what it meant for me in Communist times,” Fiala added, noting a personal connection to the station that he listened to in his youth.

Since the U.S. funding cuts were announced, the Czech government has actively sought European support for the radio station. European Affairs Minister Martin Dvořák confirmed that nine EU countries have supported a Czech initiative for European assistance to sustain RFE/RL.

Discussions with European Commission representatives, including EU Budget Commissioner Piotr Serafin, are ongoing. Fiala has also called for a "coalition of states for a European solution" to safeguard RFE/RL’s future.

The U.S. government’s decision to reduce funding to RFE/RL has sparked significant controversy, especially given the station’s role in promoting democratic values and providing independent news in regions where media freedom is restricted.

The funding cuts were part of a broader reduction in U.S. international broadcasting services, a move supported by figures like billionaire Elon Musk, a vocal critic of the station’s perceived political bias. Musk has openly called for the closure of both RFE/RL and Voice of America, dismissing them as wasteful and ideologically biased.

In contrast, Czech officials are actively making efforts to secure the station’s future. These include exploring potential European solutions or even the possibility of purchasing the station, as suggested by Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský.

As RFE/RL defends its funding in U.S. courts, the station's fate remains uncertain. But its future in Prague may be more secure thanks to growing European support and the Czech government’s firm support.