The Trump administration has directed the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to change how the U.S. gives aid to other countries. This decision is part of President Trump’s “America First” policy. The government told USAID workers that they need to follow these new rules or face consequences.
On January 27, a memo was sent to over 10,000 USAID staff. It ordered them to follow the President’s vision for foreign assistance, which includes a halt on foreign aid for 90 days. This pause is to review if the aid matches Trump’s foreign policy goals. The memo emphasized that every aid program will be carefully checked to make sure it fits the new plans. Only emergency food aid and help for government officials returning to their duties are allowed during this time.
The U.S. is the largest donor of international aid, contributing billions of dollars each year. But now, humanitarian groups and aid workers are worried about how this freeze will affect people who depend on U.S. assistance, especially those in countries facing hunger and disasters.
For example, in Sudan, where millions of people need food aid, the U.S. provides almost half of the country’s humanitarian help. The freeze could hurt vulnerable people, leaving them with not just empty stomachs but also weak bodies, making them more likely to get sick and suffer.
Aid groups like CARE are concerned that even if food aid continues, other necessary services to help people who are starving or sick may be stopped. This freeze will impact the most vulnerable populations, especially those in conflict zones where help is desperately needed.
