Allegations of espionage, terrorist infiltration, and corruption within the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) have triggered an unprecedented crisis, directly affecting Radio and TV Martí, along with Voice of America and other media outlets overseen by the agency. In an official statement, Kari Lake, a senior advisor to the USAGM appointed by former President Donald Trump, disclosed that the agency is facing serious national security issues, leading to a drastic reduction in its operations in line with Trump’s Executive Order on cutting federal bureaucracy.
"Massive violations of national security, including spies and supporters of terrorism infiltrating the agency," Lake declared in her statement. She emphasized that USAGM has not only suffered from leaks of sensitive information but has also allowed the infiltration of spies and individuals associated with terrorism within its framework. According to her, these individuals have operated under the agency's protection, posing a significant threat to U.S. national security.
Lake was unequivocal in describing the situation within USAGM as beyond repair: "From top to bottom, this agency is a colossal wreck and a burden to the American taxpayer—a national security risk—and is irretrievably dismantled," she asserted. Beyond the alleged security lapses, the advisor pointed out other irregularities within the agency, including the misuse of public funds through dubious multi-million dollar contracts and agreements, as well as exorbitant expenses, such as a nearly $250 million lease on a building without broadcasting facilities, with a real estate broker pocketing $9 million.
Additionally, she reported the diversion of hundreds of millions of dollars to media outlets that propagate content adverse to U.S. interests. Lake argued that these problems, combined with efforts by leftist activist groups to shield the agency from reforms, made its recovery impossible. “This is just a fraction of what I found at the United States Agency for Global Media. No wonder it’s known as ‘the most corrupt agency in Washington D.C., relatively speaking.’ Because it is!” Lake stated on her X profile.
The restructuring of the USAGM directly impacts the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), which manages Radio and TV Martí. These media, aimed at a Cuban audience, have been left in limbo following the agency's operational halt while the Trump administration determines their future. "This is a significant step towards restoring the greatness of the United States and promoting freedom and democracy," the advisor concluded, indicating that the actions taken aim to ensure real and effective accountability within the agency.
In accordance with this directive, USAGM began eliminating non-statutory components and functions, reducing its staff to the legally required minimum. Consequently, a large portion of the personnel, including its affiliates, was placed on paid administrative leave as of last Saturday, until further notice. The operations of Radio and TV Martí, which would have celebrated its 40th anniversary on May 20, and other media were suspended from this Saturday following Trump's order.
Just over a week ago, the government efficiency team led by Elon Musk, known as DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), sparked controversy by listing the lease agreement for Radio and TV Martí's headquarters in Miami among the supposedly "rescinded" contracts. The cancellation of the lease for the Jorge Mas Canosa building, home of Radio and TV Martí, would save $5.32 million, according to DOGE's portal at the time.
Meanwhile, Karoline Leavitt, assistant to the president and White House press secretary, highlighted the government's decision on social media, stating that President Trump has ordered the dismantling of government-funded media that disseminate "propaganda." With this declaration, Leavitt supports the Trump administration's stance on drastically scaling back USAGM's reach, pointing out that these media outlets have operated beyond their statutory functions and misused public funds to promote narratives that do not align with the country's interests.
Understanding the USAGM Crisis and Its Impact
What is the USAGM and why is it in crisis?
The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) oversees various international broadcasting services. It is in crisis due to allegations of espionage, infiltration by terrorists, and corruption, which have severely undermined its operations and security.
How have these issues affected Radio and TV Martí?
Radio and TV Martí, which target a Cuban audience, have been left in limbo due to the operational halt of USAGM. Their future is uncertain as the Trump administration decides on their fate.
What are the financial implications of the lease cancellation for Radio and TV Martí?
The cancellation of the lease for the Jorge Mas Canosa building, Radio and TV Martí's headquarters, would result in an estimated savings of $5.32 million.
Why did Kari Lake describe the USAGM as 'irretrievably dismantled'?
Kari Lake used this term due to the pervasive issues of espionage, corruption, and financial mismanagement within USAGM, which she believes cannot be resolved, posing a significant national security risk.