Trump cumple un sueño póstumo de Fidel Castro al silenciar Radio y TV Martí | EL PAÍS América

The Silencing of Radio y TV Martí

The article details the suspension of Radio y TV Martí, a US government-funded media outlet broadcasting to Cuba, by the Donald Trump administration. This action is seen as fulfilling a long-held desire of Fidel Castro to silence a dissenting voice.

Impact and Controversy

The shutdown impacted approximately 68 employees, resulting in job losses and surprise amongst staff and some Republican congressmen. The decision was justified by the Trump administration on grounds of combating waste, fraud, and abuse within the USAGM (United States Agency for Global Media), which oversees Radio y TV Martí.

• Budget cuts preceded the shutdown.
• Accusations of promoting a radical left agenda were made.
• Some workers were placed on administrative leave.

The article highlights the significance of Radio y TV Martí in providing alternative news and information to Cubans, contrasting it with the Cuban government's monopoly on media.

Historical Significance

Radio Martí, established in 1985, aimed to break Fidel Castro's information monopoly. It faced significant challenges, including jamming from the Cuban government and criticisms regarding its journalistic practices and target audience.

• Despite challenges, it had high audience numbers in its early years.
• Listening to Radio Martí was considered an act of defiance in Cuba.
• The station played a critical role in informing Cubans about significant events not reported by state-controlled media.

The article concludes by emphasizing the potential loss for the Cuban people and the hope for the situation to be reversed.