Critics have raised concerns that an executive order from the Trump administration jeopardizes the United States' global credibility and reliability.
President Trump's order to freeze most U.S. foreign aid for 90 days has disrupted programs aimed at combating starvation and deadly diseases, conducting clinical trials, and providing shelter for millions of displaced individuals worldwide.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (U.S.A.I.D.), the primary agency responsible for delivering humanitarian aid, has been significantly impacted. President Trump has accused the agency of widespread corruption and fraud, although no supporting evidence has been provided.
The administration has mandated that thousands of U.S.A.I.D. employees return from overseas postings, placed all direct hires, including Foreign Service officers, on indefinite administrative leave, and transferred the agency’s oversight to the State Department.
Recently, plans were announced to drastically reduce U.S.A.I.D.’s workforce from over 10,000 to potentially a few hundred. A court subsequently issued a temporary block on certain aspects of this plan, yet the aid freeze remains in effect.
Critics assert that the executive order could result in a humanitarian disaster and diminish America's influence and standing on the global stage.
In terms of foreign aid, the United States allocated nearly $72 billion in 2023 through U.S.A.I.D., the State Department, and other programs, representing less than 1 percent of the federal budget.
While Mr. Trump's aid freeze exempts military support for countries like Israel and Egypt, it affects a wide range of humanitarian assistance programs. In 2023, Ukraine received the highest amount of U.S. assistance, totaling $16.6 billion, due to its ongoing conflict with Russia, followed by Israel with $3.3 billion.
U.S. foreign aid includes various forms such as direct financial assistance, military support, food and medical aid, and technical assistance. The funding has supported multiple humanitarian efforts globally, including disease prevention and maternal health initiatives.
The freeze was justified by the Trump administration as a necessary measure to audit the effectiveness of foreign aid spending. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the need for justifications on national security, strength, and prosperity for every dollar spent.
The immediate effects of the freeze have been alarming, with many clinical trials and programs being suspended, significantly impacting healthcare efforts in several regions including South Africa and Uganda. Aid contracts are in limbo, with numerous deliveries and services halted.
In response to the executive order, U.S.A.I.D. employees and Democratic lawmakers have expressed strong opposition, claiming that the dismantling of the agency or its merger with the State Department is illegal. A lawsuit was filed against members of the administration, contending that the reduction of personnel and cancellation of contracts violate constitutional principles.
Following a court hearing, a judge issued a temporary restraining order preventing the immediate furlough of U.S.A.I.D. employees and the withdrawal of overseas staff, underscoring the legal challenges the administration faces in implementing its directives.