Trump Administration Halts Most Foreign Aid; Israel and Egypt Exempted, Ukraine Aid in Question

Jan 24, 2025, 10:13 PM

President Donald Trump's administration has issued a 90-day suspension on most U.S. foreign aid, affecting both new and existing assistance, according to a State Department memo. The directive, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, orders an immediate 'stop-work' order on existing foreign aid grants and contracts, pending a review to ensure alignment with administration policies. Exceptions have been made for emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt, which will continue to receive funding during the pause. The freeze has caused uncertainty regarding military assistance to Ukraine, as the order appears to apply to funding for Ukraine's defense. Aid to other countries, including Jordan and Taiwan, may also be impacted. The move has reportedly shocked State Department officials, who are now working to determine the full impact on global aid programs. The United States, historically the world's largest donor of foreign assistance, is implementing this widespread pause to reevaluate its foreign aid strategy under the new administration.