Godsent Ogbebor
The United States government has announced a sweeping freeze on foreign aid, making exceptions only for military funding to Israel and Egypt, as well as emergency food assistance.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued the directive on Friday, just days after President Donald Trump took office, aligning with his “America First” policy to restrict overseas assistance.
“No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved,” the internal memo stated.
The freeze affects a wide range of aid programs, including military assistance to Ukraine, which has relied heavily on U.S. funding in its defense against Russia. The directive also halts U.S. contributions to PEPFAR, the anti-HIV/AIDS initiative credited with saving 26 million lives, and anti-malaria programs that benefit millions globally.
However, Israel and Egypt will continue receiving military aid, with Israel’s funding increasing amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. The U.S. will also maintain contributions to emergency food relief in crisis zones such as Sudan and Syria.
Democratic lawmakers have condemned the decision, warning of severe humanitarian consequences. Representatives Gregory Meeks and Lois Frankel criticized the move, arguing it undermines U.S. credibility and commitments to global partners.
Oxfam America president Abby Maxman also voiced concern, stating, “Suspending and ultimately cutting many of these programs could have life-or-death consequences for countless children and families living through crisis.
The memo allows for case-by-case exceptions and provides 85 days for a review of all foreign assistance programs. Rubio justified the freeze by citing the need to ensure aid is effective, non-duplicative, and aligned with Trump’s foreign policy objectives.
Hence, the U.S. remains the largest donor of overseas development assistance, contributing over $64 billion in 2023. With the new policy shift, significant changes to global aid distribution are expected in the coming months.
