On January 24, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order initiating a 90-day suspension of most U.S. foreign aid programs to reassess their alignment with his administration’s policy objectives. This suspension encompasses a wide range of aid initiatives, including those related to health, education, and development.
Notably, exceptions have been made for military assistance to Isr*el and Egypt, as well as emergency food aid. The decision aligns with President Trump’s “America First” policy, aiming to ensure that foreign aid serves U.S. strategic interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been tasked with reviewing existing aid programs and will provide recommendations at the conclusion of the 90-day period.
This move has raised concerns among humanitarian organizations, particularly due to the lack of exemptions for critical health programs such as PEPFAR, which combats HIV/AIDS globally. Additionally, some aid projects have already received stop-work orders, causing disruptions in services in countries like Ukraine.
Critics argue that the suspension could lead U.S. allies to seek support from other nations, potentially diminishing American influence abroad. The administration, however, maintains that the pause is necessary to ensure that U.S. foreign assistance aligns with national interests and effectively promotes global stability.