U.S. plans multi-million grant to fund right-leaning media outlets in Europe
The Trump administration intends to allocate $4 million to support conservative media groups in Europe, part of a broader $25 million aid package for right-of-center civil-society organizations.
Four individuals familiar with the plan say the Trump administration is set to provide $4 million to bolster right-wing media outlets across Europe, within a larger commitment of at least $25 million for conservative civil-society groups. The State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor frames the assistance as a way to strengthen transatlantic ties and promote free expression as several European nations approach elections.
An additional $1 million will fund a consortium of independent journalists reporting on issues like national sovereignty, natural rights and religious freedom. Officials in Europe have warned that such financing may exacerbate tensions and be viewed as meddling in their internal affairs. The State Department has notified Congress of the intent and says the program does not fund political parties, while the European Commission has not yet responded. The overall funding proposal, part of a near-$180 million State Department package, also includes grants for other democracy-promotion activities worldwide.
Why it matters
U.S. funding of European right-wing media could influence upcoming elections and strain diplomatic relations.
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