U.S. halts foreign aid programs for review following directive from new president

The U.S. State Department has issued a “stop-work” order on existing foreign assistance programs and paused new aid commitments, following a directive from President Donald J. Trump to review aid policies for alignment with his administration’s priorities, Reuters reported.

A cable, approved by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, announced waivers for military financing to Israel and Egypt but did not mention other nations, including Afghanistan.

The directive mandates a 90-day halt on foreign development assistance while the review is conducted. Critics, including former USAID official Jeremy Konyndyk, warn the freeze could disrupt life-saving aid efforts and harm vulnerable populations.

The United States, which disbursed $72 billion in foreign aid in 2023, faces criticism that the pause may weaken global partnerships and bolster rival influence. A congressional source warned that halting funds could drive partners to seek assistance from U.S. competitors.