Donald Trump is back in the spotlight with another bold statement. The US President hinted at reconsidering the country’s membership in the World Health Organization (WHO) just days after signing an order to withdraw from the global health agency.
Speaking to a packed crowd in Las Vegas on Saturday, Trump said, “Maybe we would consider doing it again. I don’t know. Maybe we would. They would have to clean it up.” His remarks left the crowd buzzing and reignited global discussions about the role of the US in international health efforts.
Why did Trump pull out of the WHO?
Trump has been a vocal critic of the WHO, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He accused the agency of failing to act quickly and decisively when the virus began spreading. Trump also claimed the WHO had a bias toward China, stating it mishandled the crisis and caused unnecessary harm to other countries.
In addition to the pandemic, Trump highlighted broader concerns. “The WHO has been a money pit for us,” he said. “We’re paying $500 million a year, and what do we get? China, with a much bigger population, only pays $39 million. It’s a total scam.”
The withdrawal process, announced on Monday, is set to be completed on January 22, 2026. This long timeline gives the US an opportunity to reconsider its position if the WHO implements reforms.
US: WHO’s biggest financial backer
The US is by far the largest contributor to the WHO, funding around 18% of its $6.8 billion budget for 2024-2025. Trump has repeatedly questioned why American taxpayers should shoulder such a significant burden.
“Our country has been ripped off for years, not just by the WHO, but by everyone,” Trump told reporters earlier in the week. “We’re not going to be taken advantage of anymore.”
The China factor
Trump has long criticized China’s role in global organizations, accusing the country of exploiting international systems for its benefit. The WHO has been no exception.
“China gets away with paying just $39 million, while we fork out $500 million,” Trump said. “It’s not just unfair—it’s ridiculous. They need us more than we need them.”
He demanded transparency and fairness, suggesting that any reconsideration of WHO membership would depend on the agency addressing these imbalances.
Rejoining the WHO: conditions apply
Trump’s comments about possibly rejoining the WHO suggest that his decision isn’t final. However, he has laid out strict conditions. “They need to clean up their act,” he said.
This includes ensuring fair financial contributions from all member countries, improving efficiency, and addressing allegations of bias. “If they fix what’s broken, maybe we’ll talk,” Trump added.
Global reactions
Trump’s decision to leave the WHO has drawn mixed reactions globally. Critics argue that the move could weaken international cooperation during future health crises. Supporters, however, applaud his America-first approach, saying it’s time for other nations to step up.
The WHO itself has remained diplomatic. A spokesperson for the agency said they hope the US will reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of global unity in tackling health challenges.
What’s next?
The clock is ticking on the US exit from the WHO. With the official withdrawal date years away, there’s plenty of time for negotiations and reversals.
Trump’s unpredictable nature keeps everyone guessing. Will he follow through with the exit, or will he use his leverage to demand sweeping changes? One thing is certain: his America-first agenda continues to drive his decisions.
For now, Trump is standing firm. “We’re done being taken advantage of,” he declared to roaring applause. But as with everything in politics, the story is far from over.
