The US State Department, under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has officially paused all foreign aid, including both existing programs and new allocations. This halt, revealed in a leaked memo and confirmed by multiple sources, follows an executive order from President Trump mandating a comprehensive review of foreign aid effectiveness and policy alignment with national interests.
US State Department Halts All Foreign Aid Amid Policy Review
US State Department Halts All Foreign Aid Amid Policy Review
The US government's recent internal directive pauses foreign assistance, citing a review of its alignment with new foreign policy goals.
According to the memo, which was distributed to officials and embassies worldwide, the suspension includes a wide array of aid forms, from military assistance to developmental aid programs, with a few notable exceptions such as emergency food assistance and military funding for Israel and Egypt. The memo specified that no new funds would be authorized for either new or existing awards until individual proposals were reviewed and approved. While some USAID employees may still receive salaries, actual aid programs are being ordered to cease operations under this directive.
Former State Department officials have expressed concerns about the extensive impacts of this pause on humanitarian initiatives. One significant implication highlighted is the withdrawal of support for de-mining operations globally, which could drastically impede efforts in conflict-affected areas. The halt also raises questions about continued US support for nations like Ukraine, which has previously relied on substantial aid under the Biden administration.
Secretary Rubio defended the move, stating that it is necessary to ensure that aid commitments avoid duplication and are genuinely effective in strengthening national interests. Emergency waivers have been issued for certain military and humanitarian purposes, including assistance relevant to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the review is set to conclude in 85 days, the effects of this sweeping policy change remain to be seen, with prospects of widespread program suspensions posing serious risks to many vulnerable communities worldwide.
Former State Department officials have expressed concerns about the extensive impacts of this pause on humanitarian initiatives. One significant implication highlighted is the withdrawal of support for de-mining operations globally, which could drastically impede efforts in conflict-affected areas. The halt also raises questions about continued US support for nations like Ukraine, which has previously relied on substantial aid under the Biden administration.
Secretary Rubio defended the move, stating that it is necessary to ensure that aid commitments avoid duplication and are genuinely effective in strengthening national interests. Emergency waivers have been issued for certain military and humanitarian purposes, including assistance relevant to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the review is set to conclude in 85 days, the effects of this sweeping policy change remain to be seen, with prospects of widespread program suspensions posing serious risks to many vulnerable communities worldwide.
