Exiled Russian journalists face legal uncertainty after funding cuts

Exiled Russian journalists are facing serious challenges after a decision by the Trump administration to cut funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). This move puts many journalists at risk of losing their legal status in countries like the Czech Republic and Latvia, where they work. Many of these journalists hold work visas that are connected to their employment. If funding for RFE/RL ends, their visas could expire, leaving them with no legal status. Some journalists, like Alsu Kurmasheva, have already faced danger in Russia, where returning could lead to arrest. RFE/RL aims to provide unbiased news to regions with limited press freedom. The organization has faced increasing pressure in Russia, where it was labeled as a foreign agent and its operations were suspended in 2022. Despite censorship, RFE/RL reaches around 10 million Russians weekly. The US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) announced the funding cuts in an effort to reduce government spending. The move has raised concerns about the safety of many journalists who rely on RFE/RL for their work and legal status. Officials warn that without funding, hundreds of journalists and their families could be at risk. The broader media landscape is also affected, as funding for other organizations like Voice of America and the BBC World Service has been cut. Meanwhile, RFE/RL is suing USAGM to challenge the funding cuts and is seeking support from the European Union, with the Czech Republic taking a lead in finding alternative funding.