The Trump administration has announced the closure of a State Department office dedicated to countering foreign disinformation, citing concerns over censorship. The decision follows President Donald Trump’s executive order last month to reduce the scope of an independent federal agency that funded outlets such as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the move, claiming the office had strayed from its mission and suppressed conservative voices. Critics, however, argue that the closure undermines efforts to combat misinformation campaigns from adversaries like Russia and China.
Meanwhile, a US federal judge has found probable cause to hold Trump administration officials in criminal contempt of court for allegedly defying an order to halt deportation flights. The ruling adds to the legal challenges faced by the administration over its immigration policies.
These actions highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech, disinformation, and immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.