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| US Secretary of State Marco Rubio | Photo: Reuters |
The United States, historically the world’s largest donor announced on Friday the suspension of nearly all foreign aid programs. This sweeping decision spares only emergency food assistance and military aid to Israel and Egypt, marking a significant shift in US foreign policy.
The move comes shortly after President Donald Trump’s inauguration for a second term. Newly appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio sent a directive to US embassies and officials worldwide, outlining plans to implement an "America First" approach to foreign aid. A leaked State Department document specifies that no funds will be allocated to new or existing aid programs without a comprehensive review and approval process.
The suspension is expected to affect various forms of assistance, including development and military aid. Notably, Ukraine, which recently received billions of dollars in military aid from the Biden administration to support its war effort against Russia, may also face cuts.
The directive further targets the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which provides life-saving medication to combat AIDS in developing nations, particularly in Africa. PEPFAR, launched by George W. Bush in 2003, has saved the lives of 26 million people. However, the program’s funding will be halted for at least several months, jeopardizing care for millions.
Emergency food aid will remain unaffected by the suspension, ensuring continued assistance to countries facing crises, such as Sudan and Syria. Additionally, military aid to Israel and Egypt is exempt. Israel’s arms funding has increased amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, while Egypt continues to receive defense aid as part of its longstanding peace agreement with Israel.
The suspension has sparked alarm among lawmakers and international aid organizations. Democratic lawmakers estimate over 20 million people rely on PEPFAR’s drug programs, while 63 million benefit from US-supported anti-malaria initiatives.
International charity Oxfam criticized the decision, with Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam US, emphasizing the devastating impact of halting aid. "Only one percent of the US budget goes to humanitarian and development aid, yet it saves lives, combats disease, and reduces poverty. Cutting these programs could mean life or death for countless families," Maxman said in a statement.
The State Department has ordered a full review of all foreign aid within 85 days. This development follows an executive order issued by President Trump earlier this week, temporarily halting foreign aid for 90 days. Details about the implementation of the order remain unclear.
According to data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the US provided over $64 billion in foreign development aid in 2023. Critics argue that the abrupt suspension reverses decades of US commitment to global humanitarian efforts and could have severe consequences for vulnerable populations.
The move underscores a dramatic shift in US foreign aid policy, as the administration prioritizes domestic interests under its "America First" agenda.