The Trump administration has completed a six-week review of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), resulting in the termination of 83% of its programs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the remaining 17% will be integrated into the State Department, marking a major shift in U.S. foreign aid policy.
The cuts affect approximately 5,200 out of 6,200 USAID initiatives, including projects focused on democracy promotion, health services, and disaster response. Critics warn that these cancellations could disrupt essential aid efforts worldwide, particularly in vulnerable regions. The move has also triggered legal challenges, with a federal judge ruling that President Trump overstepped his authority, as Congress controls foreign aid allocations. However, the ruling did not mandate the reinstatement of the canceled programs.
Additionally, the restructuring has led to over 1,000 USAID employees and contractors being fired or furloughed. Staff have been given until April 6 to return to the U.S. at government expense. Analysts suggest this reduction in U.S. aid could allow other global powers, particularly China, to expand their influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.
