Ukrainian media, known for their independence and investigative projects, have asked readers to financial support. The reason for this step was the stop of US grant programs, including those funded through USAID. This happened after the decision of the Donald Trump administration to temporarily terminate grant assistance for a number of international initiatives.
Media, such as Hromadske and Bihus.info , directly reported on funding problems.
- Hromadske has stated that some of their projects, implemented through grant support, temporarily stops:
"That is why we especially need the support of everyone and each of you," - said in addressing our readers. - Bihus.info , which specializes in anti -corruption investigations, emphasized that USAID has covered a large part of their activities:
“Now the role of donates from viewers is changing - from an alternative source to one of the key ones. That will be unknown in 90 days. ”
Other leading Ukrainian media, such as "Ukrainian Truth" and "Media Detector" , also turned to their audiences, but did not directly name the suspension of USAID grant programs as the cause of their financial difficulties.
"Ukrainian Truth" has announced the possibility of introducing paid access to its materials:
“We believe that quality content should be accessible to all, so we will not impose restrictions on the latter. Support us so that we can continue work without restrictions. ”
At the same time, the Media Detector , which is largely funded by USAID, said:
“Quality journalism is our voice in the world. If we lose it, we will lose the truth. ”
The financial dependence of many Ukrainian independent media on grants of international organizations, including USAID, has made them vulnerable to political changes. Donald Trump's decree on temporary freezing of grant programs has significantly influenced their work.
The question that these media now raise is whether Ukrainians are ready to support independent journalism in conditions where international assistance is declining.
