In a recent announcement, the Trump administration has decided to significantly reduce foreign aid by cutting approximately 90% of USAID’s funding contracts. The abrupt decision has sparked surprise and outrage among health organizations and non-governmental groups who believe these cuts will lead to the collapse of crucial humanitarian programs worldwide.
Just a month after President Donald Trump initiated a 90-day review of U.S. spending, the drastic measure has led to the permanent defunding of programs aimed at combating hunger, disease, and other critical aid efforts that benefit millions globally. The InterAction group, a coalition of NGOs operating internationally, expressed deep concerns, highlighting potential tragedies such as hunger, spoilage of food supplies, and the risk of newborns contracting HIV due to halted programs.
The Trump administration claimed that the funding cuts amounting to $60 billion will cease international aid that does not align with American interests. This decision led to the termination of some 10,000 USAID contracts, severely impacting U.S. foreign assistance efforts, according to InterAction.
Liz Schrayer, from the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, warned that this move could allow countries like China, Russia, and Iran to gain greater international influence. She called for transparency regarding the consequences of this decision, particularly concerning counterterrorism, global health, and food security.
In South Africa, organizations decried the sudden cancellation of USAID contracts for HIV programs, describing it as the U.S. government abandoning the vulnerable. USAID’s funding is integral to the success of PEPFAR, a program initiated by President George W. Bush that has saved millions from AIDS-related deaths. The cuts threaten life-saving services for millions requiring treatment for HIV and tuberculosis.
With South Africa having the world’s largest HIV treatment cohort, the financial cutbacks pose a significant risk. Although U.S. funding constitutes only 17% of its HIV program, the impact of these cuts could destabilize the entire treatment framework.
President Trump, with support from advisor Elon Musk, seeks to significantly diminish federal government expenditures. They argue that USAID projects foster a liberal agenda and misuse financial resources. Termination notices sent to USAID partners globally cited the withdrawal of funds as aligning with the “interests of the U.S. government.”
Despite a waiver program introduced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to preserve funding for vital services, many programs have irrevocably lost their support. These developments follow Trump’s directive to reassess foreign assistance priorities since his return to office on January 20.
The administration also drastically reduced USAID staff, mandating many employees to vacate their positions through forced leave and terminations. Over recent days, numerous workers were allotted a mere 15 minutes to clear their workspaces in response to these sweeping changes.
