Trump to cut aid to many countries in bid to put national interest first

Field hospitals in Thai refugee camps, landmine clearance efforts in conflict-affected areas, and medication for millions afflicted by diseases like HIV are just some of the initiatives at risk as President Donald Trump considers significant reductions to U.S. foreign aid. Last week, Trump suspended development assistance from the U.S. Agency for International Development for 90 days to evaluate its alignment with his "America First" policy, raising concerns among aid organisations globally that rely on U.S. generosity.

Humanitarian organisations and U.N. agencies indicate that they may encounter significant limitations on their capacity to provide food, shelter, and healthcare if the freeze becomes permanent. The United States remains the largest contributor to global humanitarian assistance, providing an estimated $13.9 billion in 2024, which constitutes 42% of all aid monitored by the United Nations.

The directive to halt funding has caused confusion for USAID missions and their partners, leaving many organisations uncertain about whether to implement staff layoffs, sell off assets like vehicles, or request employees to take unpaid leave, according to a source within the agency. USAID has been restricted from engaging with implementing partners, except to inform them that funding has been suspended, the individual noted.

Other agencies reported they would remain unaffected by the funding freeze. Matthew Saltmarsh, spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, stated that the agency does not receive funding from USAID.

Media freedom activists warn that independent media outlets reliant on external funding in authoritarian regimes may face significant challenges to their survival.