Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore $12M for Radio Free Europe

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to immediately restore $12 million in funding to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), rejecting the administration's attempt to withhold funds already approved by Congress and signed into law. Judge Royce Lamberth emphasized that only Congress has the constitutional authority over federal spending, and the executive branch cannot unilaterally revoke appropriated funds. The funding freeze had severe consequences for RFE/RL, including the furlough of 122 employees, termination of freelance contracts, and unpaid operational costs, putting the organization's worldwide news operations at risk of shutdown. The ruling, delivered as a temporary restraining order, underscores the checks and balances among the branches of government and the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional boundaries. RFE/RL, a U.S.-backed broadcaster operating in 27 languages across multiple countries, was facing its first-ever potential shutdown in its 75-year history due to the funding dispute. The judge's order ensures RFE/RL can continue its pro-democracy broadcasting while the broader legal battle continues.