In a sweeping move, the Trump administration has suspended all foreign aid and ordered a comprehensive review of its financial assistance programmes to ensure they align with the United States' 'America First' agenda. This decision, announced through an executive order by President Donald Trump, marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, aiming to prioritize national interests and taxpayer accountability.
State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the review seeks to ensure American financial aid supports the nation’s strategic goals. "President Trump has made it clear that the United States will no longer blindly allocate funds without a return for the American people. Reviewing and realigning foreign assistance is not just a fiscal responsibility—it is a moral imperative," Bruce stated on Sunday.
As part of this initiative, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has halted all foreign assistance funded by the State Department and USAID. The review will assess the efficiency and relevance of aid programs, with a focus on ensuring consistency with US foreign policy. "This is about protecting America's investment and being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. The mandate from the American people is clear: refocus on national interests," Bruce added.
The decision impacts a wide range of aid programs, with USAID alone distributing nearly $45 billion to 158 countries in 2023. Key beneficiaries included Afghanistan ($1 billion), Bangladesh ($400 million), Pakistan ($231 million), India ($175 million), Nepal ($118 million), and Sri Lanka ($123 million).
President Trump, who assumed office as the 47th president on January 20, has already signed over 80 executive orders across diverse policy areas, including trade, immigration, national security, and public health. Declaring January 20 as "Liberation Day," Trump proclaimed during his inaugural speech that "America's decline is over" and promised the beginning of a "golden age" for the nation.
This latest move reflects Trump’s commitment to reshaping America’s global engagement by prioritizing efficiency, accountability, and national interests. The review is expected to bring significant changes to the structure and allocation of US foreign aid.
