Trump suspends all foreign aid, orders financial assistance review under ‘America First’ policy

In a In a significant turn of events, the United States has declared a halt to all foreign aid and has begun an extensive assessment of its financial assistance programs provided to other nations. According to reports, this decision was made by the administration led by President Donald Trump in order to enhance the effectiveness of aid and ensure it aligns with the country's foreign policy, which is grounded in the ‘America First' principles.

This announcement comes in the wake of an executive order issued by President Trump, highlighting the necessity to assess whether U.S. financial aid truly serves national interests effectively. Earlier on Sunday, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce noted that President Trump made it clear that the United States will no longer distribute funds indiscriminately without benefits for American citizens. “Evaluating and adjusting foreign assistance for the sake of diligent taxpayers is not only appropriate but also a moral obligation,” she stated.

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All foreign assistance programmes to be reviewed 

Bruce stated that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has put a hold on all U.S. foreign aid financed by or through the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) pending a review. “He is starting an evaluation of all foreign assistance programs to confirm they are effective and in line with U.S. foreign policy as outlined in the America First agenda,” Bruce explained.

She further mentioned that the secretary is committed to safeguarding America’s investments through a careful and thoughtful assessment of foreign assistance expenditures. “The message from the American people was unmistakable — we need to prioritize American national interests. The Department and USAID regard their responsibility as guardians of taxpayer funds with utmost seriousness,” the State Department spokesperson stated.

Notably, USAID distributed nearly USD45 billion in foreign aid to 158 countries in 2023. This included USD400 million to Bangladesh, USD231 million to Pakistan, USD1 billion to Afghanistan, USD175 million to India, USD118 million to Nepal, and USD123 million to Sri Lanka. 

Trump takes over as 47th President

It is important to note that Trump has made numerous bold and far-reaching decisions, having signed over 80 executive orders since assuming office as the 47th president of the United States on January 20. These orders cover a diverse array of policy areas, including trade, immigration, national security, and public health. During his inaugural address, Trump also referred to January 20 as “Liberation Day,” vowing significant and transformative changes while declaring that “America’s decline is over” and that the nation was entering a new “golden age.”

(With PTI inputs)