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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Dasha Litvinova and Yuras Karmanau

US aid cutoff poses new challenges to rights groups and independent media from Russia and Belarus

Trump USAID Russia Belarus - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Rights groups, activists and independent media in Russia and Belarus endured increased government scrutiny, repressive laws and even being outlawed and forced to operate from exile abroad. Many survived despite the difficulties.

Now some face a new challenge: the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to freeze for 90 days the aid provided by Washington.

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