Trump Halts Federal Aid Programs, Imposes 90-Day Foreign Aid Freeze Except for Israel and Egypt

Jan 28, 2025, 02:24 AM

The Trump administration has issued a sweeping directive to temporarily halt all federal financial assistance programs, including grants, loans, and other forms of aid, effective from January 28 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. This pause, ordered by the White House Office of Management and Budget acting director Matthew Vaeth, is set to last until a review of these programs can be completed, aligning them with President Trump's priorities. The memo specifically mentions pausing activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), foreign aid, support for nongovernmental organizations, and initiatives related to gender ideology and the Green New Deal. Federal agencies are required to submit detailed information on affected programs by February 10. Additionally, the Trump administration, through an executive order signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has imposed a 90-day freeze on foreign aid, with exceptions for military assistance to Israel and Egypt. This move has sparked concern from the United Nations, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for additional exemptions to ensure the continued delivery of critical development and humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities worldwide.