Trump Administration’s Drastic Cuts to USAID Foreign Aid Contracts Threaten Global Programs

The Trump administration’s decision to cut 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts has prompted outrage from health groups and NGOs, predicting the collapse of vital humanitarian programs. The termination of 10,000 USAID contracts threatens global efforts to combat hunger and disease, raising concerns about the implications for millions in need. Critics warn that this move undermines U.S. foreign influence and exacerbates global instability.

The Trump administration’s recent decision to terminate 90% of USAID’s foreign aid contracts has elicited strong reactions from health organizations and non-governmental entities globally. They indicate that this cut will lead to the collapse of numerous humanitarian programs aimed at alleviating hunger and disease, thereby impacting millions in need. The move occurs shortly after President Trump announced a 90-day review of federal spending, raising concerns over the potential humanitarian consequences.

According to the InterAction group, an alliance of U.S. NGOs, this action will have dire implications; “Women and children will go hungry, food will rot in warehouses while families starve, children will be born with HIV — among other tragedies.” This sentiment underscores the belief that such measures will not enhance American security but may instead foster instability and suffering.

A reported 10,000 contracts managed by USAID have been terminated, effectively undermining American foreign assistance. Liz Schrayer, president and CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, cautioned that this cutback could lead to a loss of international influence against nations such as China, Russia, and Iran, remarking that the American populace deserves clarity regarding what aid services will be lost.

In South Africa, health advocates reported that thousands of funding agreements for HIV programs had been rescinded, claiming the U.S. has abandoned vulnerable individuals both domestically and abroad. USAID’s funding supports the PEPFAR initiative, which has been instrumental in saving millions from AIDS-related complications since its inception in 2003 under President George W. Bush.

Despite USAID contributing to approximately 17% of South Africa’s HIV funding, cuts could jeopardize entire programs that depend on these critical funds. Both President Trump and advisor Elon Musk have aggressively pursued reductions in foreign aid, labeling USAID’s initiatives as ineffective and wasteful.

Termination notices sent to affected NGOs suggest funding was withdrawn “for convenience and the interests of the U.S. government,” indicating that these programs were deemed misaligned with agency priorities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had proposed a waiver program to shield vital services, but many waivers were never implemented.

Following President Trump’s order to freeze foreign assistance, a swift review was initiated on January 20 regarding which programs would continue. Moreover, many USAID staff members faced forced leave or termination, with reports indicating they had minimal time to vacate their workspaces.

The Trump administration’s drastic reduction of USAID foreign aid contracts is projected to have widespread detrimental effects on humanitarian initiatives globally, particularly in health and food security. The decision has raised significant alarm among NGOs and health organizations, highlighting the potential for increased suffering and instability in vulnerable regions. The broad cuts reflect a substantial shift in U.S. foreign assistance policy that could enable competing powers to exert greater influence internationally.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com