The US State Department has halted nearly all foreign assistance and suspended new aid, as revealed in an internal memo distributed to officials and US embassies abroad. This decision aligns with President Trump's recent executive order calling for a 90-day pause in foreign development assistance to assess effectiveness and alignment with his foreign policy objectives.
Exceptions are made for emergency food aid and military funding for Israel and Egypt. The leaked memo's contents have been verified by the BBC.
According to the memo, "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." Additionally, US officials are instructed to issue stop-work orders in compliance with relevant award terms until the Secretary determines the next steps after review.
A comprehensive review of all foreign assistance is mandated to be finalized within 85 days to ensure alignment with President Trump's foreign policy goals.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized that US expenditures abroad should only occur if they contribute to making America "stronger," "safer," or "more prosperous."
Experts have expressed concerns over the potential impact of this directive on foreign aid programs funded by the US. Josh Paul, a former senior State Department official, highlighted the significant repercussions this could have globally, such as halting humanitarian de-mining programs.
Dave Harden, a former USAID mission director, underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that humanitarian and development programs worldwide funded by the US may face immediate suspension pending the review, affecting critical projects like water, sanitation, and shelter.
Furthermore, the funding freeze could impact countries like Ukraine, which received substantial aid under the previous administration. The memo from Rubio outlined waivers for emergency food assistance, while exemptions have been granted for military funding for Israel and Egypt, as well as administrative expenses.
This development coincides with an increase in humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip post-ceasefire and ongoing food crises in regions like Sudan. The State Department has been contacted for a response.