A new report reveals that nearly 90% of media outlets in Ukraine rely on international funding, primarily from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). However, a recent freeze on global spending by former President Donald Trump has led many outlets to struggle or suspend operations.
One such outlet, Slidstvo.Info, has seen 80% of its budget impacted by the freeze. While USAID’s 2025 foreign-aid budget includes over $268 million for media support, it hasn’t disclosed how much of that is allocated to Ukrainian outlets. USAID has been a key supporter of independent media worldwide since the 1980s, but now, with funding halted, many outlets fear they’ll be forced to seek alternative sources that could influence their editorial independence. Some even worry about Russian money entering the media market and furthering propaganda.
As independent media in Ukraine already faces financial strain due to the Russian invasion in 2022, some outlets, like NikVesti, say the funding suspension is just the beginning. Katerina Abramova, from the exiled Russian outlet Meduza, expressed concern that the USAID funding might not return, leaving outlets like hers, which can’t monetize their audience, in an even more precarious position.
This funding freeze has also stirred political debate, with figures like Elon Musk and Marco Rubio criticizing USAID. Meanwhile, the media landscape in Ukraine continues to struggle, with fears growing that the loss of international support could lead to increased disinformation and government influence.
