Police raid NGOs, investigating USAID funding

According to the RTS, the CRTA and Civic Initiatives NGOs were being investigated for possible misuse of funds from USAID. “Following statements by the FBI director on the misuse of USAID funds, the Belgrade Prosecution is investigating the activities of certain NGOs,” the RTS said.

The pro-regime tabloid Informer, a fierce supporter of the authorities, said that the investigations into the use of USAID funds started when US President Donald Trump took office. It added that the Trump administration found that millions had been used inappropriately and that the investigation into the use of those funds extended to several countries including Serbia. Informer said USAID funds were used to finance NGOs and media in Serbia and added that Trump himself revealed that huge funds were earmarked to exert influence on the election process in Serbia.