Following decisions by the Trump administration to significantly cut international aid, USAID programs in Armenia have begun to wind down. This has impacted independent media, educational platforms, and civil society initiatives. Armenia, a country with a fragile democracy, will feel the consequences acutely, according to experts.
USAID has played a key role in shaping civil society and free media in Armenia since 1992. Over three decades, the U.S. invested billions in developing democratic institutions and economic and social development. Programs supporting independent media, aimed at providing objective information, have been systematic.
Tens of millions of dollars have flowed into the media sphere through USAID and the U.S. Embassy until 2025. However, projects in Armenia have been paused or completely terminated due to the political decision to massively cut foreign aid, which began during Donald Trump's second presidential term.