The rule extends a 2017 law pertaining to outlets like Voice of America. That law was drafted after the Justice Department compelled Russia-backed RT America to register as a foreign agent in the U.S.
VOA covers the U.S., warts and all. But is that enough for the president? VOA's director tells NPR it's protected by law, and if it's told to change, she'll respond, "Thank you for your input."
Moscow has made it clear that the move comes in direct retaliation for the U.S. Justice Department's decision to require the Kremlin-funded RT America to register as a "foreign agent."
Leadership of the federal government's foreign news service is shifting from a bipartisan governing board to a CEO. Some worry that could leave the broadcaster subject to White House pressure.
