The Trump administration has terminated over 5,300 foreign aid programs managed by USAID, totaling $27 billion. While some key health and humanitarian initiatives remain, the cuts align with the administration’s “America First” policy, focusing on reducing U.S. spending. Critics argue the decision could lead to worsening global health conditions, while supporters emphasize fiscal responsibility. Congressional Democrats are expected to challenge the administration’s authority to end these programs.
Trump Administration Ends Over $27 Billion in Foreign Aid
According to a document obtained by POLITICO, the Trump administration has terminated more than 5,300 grants and contracts administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), amounting to over $27 billion. These cuts were communicated to Congress on Monday, along with a separate document confirming that 900 programs worth $8.3 billion would continue.
USAID, which had over 10,000 employees in January, now retains only 869 staff members working alongside the State Department to maintain selected aid initiatives. The agency has been undergoing a restructuring led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.
Major Foreign Aid Programs Affected
Several high-profile international aid programs have been eliminated, including:
- $880 million for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which provides vaccines to developing nations (2022-2030).
- $262 million for UNAIDS, the United Nations HIV program (2022-2026).
- $57 million in tuberculosis research at Johns Hopkins University (2022-2027).
- $6.5 million for managing drug-resistant tuberculosis in USAID-supported countries (2024-2029).
Despite these cuts, the administration will continue funding food assistance programs in Zimbabwe and Tanzania and child malnutrition aid in Yemen. Several HIV programs, including a $458 million initiative for rapid HIV test kits and an HIV prevention program in Malawi, will also proceed.
State Department Defends Cuts
The State Department issued a statement defending the decision, arguing that the retained programs align with U.S. strategic interests. “USAID’s continuing programs advance the core national interests of the United States,” the statement read.
The department cited ongoing support for the Ebola response in Uganda, emergency assistance in conflict zones, and partnerships with key American allies as justifications for keeping certain programs.
Criticism and Political Reactions
The United States is the world’s largest donor for global health and humanitarian aid, and many experts warn that these cuts will negatively impact disease prevention efforts worldwide. Critics argue that eliminating funds for vaccine distribution, HIV programs, and tuberculosis research could lead to worsening health crises and increased mortality rates in vulnerable regions.
However, congressional Republicans largely support the reductions, citing the country’s growing national debt. They argue that foreign aid spending should be restructured to prioritize domestic economic stability.
What’s Next?
Congressional Democrats are expected to challenge the administration’s authority to unilaterally terminate these programs. Traditionally, Congress has the final say on how U.S. funds are allocated, setting the stage for a potential legal and political battle.
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