U.S. Freezes Most Foreign Aid Funding for 90-Day Review Under Trump's Order

Jan 25, 2025, 03:16 AM

The U.S. State Department has implemented a sweeping freeze on new funding for nearly all U.S. foreign assistance programs worldwide, effective immediately. This action follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which mandates a 90-day review of foreign aid to ensure alignment with his foreign policy agenda. The freeze, detailed in a cable sent by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to U.S. embassies globally, exempts emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt. The order threatens to halt billions of dollars in U.S.-funded projects that support health, education, development, job training, anti-corruption, and security assistance efforts. Notably, the globally acclaimed anti-HIV program, the President's Emergency Relief Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), is among those affected by the spending freeze. The move has sparked concern among humanitarian officials, who fear life or death consequences for communities worldwide due to the suspension of vital health programs.