The Trump administration has taken a dramatic step, suspending nearly all foreign assistance programs for 90 days. This bold decision, part of President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda, is aimed at reviewing U.S. foreign aid to ensure alignment with his policy goals. However, military aid to Israel and Egypt, as well as emergency food programs, remain untouched.
Sweeping Freeze on Foreign Aid
On his first day back in office, President Trump signed an executive order halting U.S. foreign assistance for 90 days. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the suspension through an internal memo, emphasizing the need to ensure every dollar spent benefits U.S. interests. According to the directive, all new funding and program extensions are now subject to case-by-case review.
Trump’s order stated that many foreign aid programs fail to align with American values and, in some cases, destabilize global peace. The move is expected to impact programs across sectors, from health initiatives to military assistance, excluding Israel and Egypt.
Key Exceptions: Israel and Egypt
Despite the sweeping freeze, military aid to Israel and Egypt has been exempted. Both countries hold strategic importance for U.S. foreign policy. Israel, a longstanding ally in the Middle East, continues to receive robust military support. Similarly, Egypt has benefited from U.S. aid since its 1979 peace treaty with Israel.
Impact on Global Aid Programs
The decision is expected to have far-reaching consequences. Programs such as PEPFAR, which provides life-saving HIV/AIDS treatments in Africa, and anti-malaria initiatives could face severe disruptions. Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the catastrophic effects on millions of lives, especially in developing nations.
Additionally, countries like Ukraine, which have relied heavily on U.S. aid to counter Russian aggression, face uncertainty. Critics argue this freeze could weaken U.S. influence globally, pushing vulnerable nations toward adversaries like China or Russia for support.
Opposition and Controversy
Democratic lawmakers and global experts have condemned the suspension, calling it a reckless move that undermines international stability. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi and others labeled the decision a “direct attack on humanitarian values.” Opposition members have also questioned the legality of halting foreign assistance, pointing out that Congress controls federal budgets.
Rubio’s Guidelines for Approval
Rubio outlined three guiding principles to determine whether aid should resume:
- Does it make America safer?
- Does it make America stronger?
- Does it make America more prosperous?
The State Department and USAID, the primary agencies managing foreign aid, must now justify all funding based on these criteria.
What’s Next?
The Trump administration plans to finalize its review of foreign aid by early April. While supporters praise the move as a way to prioritize American interests, critics fear the long-term damage to global partnerships and humanitarian programs.
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s decision to halt foreign aid is a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy. By focusing on America’s strategic interests, the administration aims to reshape how aid is allocated. However, the global ramifications of this move remain to be seen.