US Halts Most Foreign Aid Programs for 90 Days
The United States has temporarily paused most of its foreign aid programs, stopping new assistance and putting ongoing projects on hold. This move follows an executive order by President Donald Trump, mandating a 90-day review of foreign aid to ensure it aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals. The U.S. is the world’s largest donor of international aid, spending $68 billion in 2023. However, according to a leaked memo from the State Department, emergency food aid and military funding for Israel and Egypt are exempt from this pause. Other development and military programs worldwide will be suspended during the review. The memo instructs that no new funds can be committed to any new or existing foreign aid projects until they are reviewed and approved by the U.S. government. Current contracts are also on hold until the Secretary of State determines they fit with the administration’s policy priorities.
