Voice of America director confirms near-total staff suspension
Illustrative photo: All staff of Voice of America's Ukrainian service suspended (Getty Images)
On Saturday, media reported that many Voice of America employees were placed on leave due to a decree by US President Donald Trump. This information has now been officially confirmed via the post by the broadcaster's director Michael Abramowitz and the head of the Ukrainian service of Voice of America, Ruslan Petrichko.
"Message from the director of Voice of America. Currently, Voice of America in Ukrainian has suspended broadcasting. All employees have been placed on administrative leave. What happens next remains unknown," wrote Petrichko, sharing the director's post.
Michael Abramowitz expressed disappointment that almost the entire staff of Voice of America, including himself, had been placed on administrative leave.
"I am deeply saddened that for the first time in 83 years, the storied Voice of America is being silenced. I learned this morning that virtually the entire staff of Voice of America—more than 1300 journalists, producers and support staff—has been placed on administrative leave today. So have I. VOA needs thoughtful reform, and we have made progress in that regard," Abramowitz wrote.
At the same time, he emphasized that yesterday's action rendered the media outlet incapable of fulfilling its vital mission. According to the director, this mission is particularly important today, as adversaries of the United States such as Iran, China, and Russia are investing billions of dollars in creating false narratives to discredit the US.
"VOA promotes freedom and democracy around the world by telling America’s story and by providing objective and balanced news and information, especially for those living under tyranny. Even if the agency survives in some form, the actions being taken today by the Administration will severely damage Voice of America’s ability to foster a world that is safe and free and in doing so is failing to protect US interests," he added.
Abramowitz writes that Voice of America is an invaluable asset for the US, playing a crucial role in the fight against communism, fascism, and oppression, as well as in the struggle for freedom and democracy. He shared that this media outlet reaches over 360 million people annually in 48 languages. Additionally, in many dictatorships, Voice of America is the only reliable source of news and information.
"I salute the amazing staff of Voice of America. Many of them came to America from authoritarian countries where they were not able to practice journalism freely. It is inspiring to be their leader, and they have my deep respect and appreciation for doing their part to advance freedom and democracy," concluded Abramowitz.
