US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Announces Major 83% Cuts to USAID Programs

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that 83% of USAID (U.S. Agency for International Development) programs are being closed down following a six-week review by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The review led to the cancelation of 5,200 contracts representing billions of dollars in funding.

Rubio called the step a “historic reform” and commended DOGE’s work. Musk, while acknowledging the challenge of the review, said it was crucial to improve U.S. foreign assistance. The remaining 18% of USAID programs, some 1,000 contracts, will now be managed by the State Department, a move taken in consultation with Congress.

This action comes after broader reforms by the Trump administration to align government spending with U.S. national interests. The cuts have triggered political theatrics, with Rubio and Musk engaging in a shouting match during a Cabinet meeting, as per reports, although President Trump defended the actions of Rubio.

Legal fights continue on the restructuring of USAID, with the Supreme Court recently allowing a lower court ruling that requires the Trump administration to spend $2 billion in foreign aid payments under existing contracts.