The U.S. State Department announced a sweeping "stop-work" order on all foreign assistance programs, effective immediately, in compliance with President Donald Trump’s directive to review aid distribution for alignment with his foreign policy objectives. A cable, drafted by the Department’s foreign assistance office and approved by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlined the freeze, with waivers granted only for military financing to Israel and Egypt.
President Trump’s order, issued shortly after his inauguration on Monday, called for a 90-day pause to evaluate the efficiency and consistency of foreign aid spending with U.S. policy goals. The move could disrupt billions of dollars in life-saving programs, with critics warning of severe humanitarian consequences. In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. disbursed $72 billion in foreign assistance, making it the largest donor globally.
The cable mandates that no new foreign assistance obligations be made, and existing programs must halt operations until reviewed by Rubio. Exceptions have been made for emergency food assistance, although critics argue that critical health, education, and humanitarian programs, including vaccinations and maternal care, are at risk.
“This will kill people,” said Jeremy Konyndyk, president of Refugees International and a former USAID official. He described the policy as a “wrecking ball” that threatens vital programs supporting vulnerable populations worldwide.
A USAID official, speaking anonymously, reported that aid projects in Ukraine, including education and health initiatives, have already been suspended. Other key programs in regions such as Gaza, Syria, and Sudan could also face shutdowns.
Rubio has approved waivers for foreign military financing for Israel and Egypt, which receive $3.3 billion and $1.3 billion annually, respectively. Military aid requests for other nations, including Ukraine, Taiwan, and Jordan, remain under review.
Critics argue that the pause could erode U.S. influence on the global stage, as international partners may turn to rival nations for funding. "Freezing these investments will lead to U.S. competitors filling the void, undermining America’s strategic interests," said a source familiar with congressional discussions.
The freeze comes amid heightened global needs, including humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Lebanon, where aid is critical to maintaining stability and addressing urgent challenges.