President Trump’s decision to cut 83% of USAID programs threatens funding for Pakistan and Bangladesh, which previously received substantial assistance. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced only programs benefiting American interests will continue. The move follows a review that highlighted inefficiencies and possible misuse of funds in foreign aid.
President Donald Trump has officially announced a significant decision regarding foreign aid, specifically through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The announcement, made public by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reveals that 83% of USAID programs are set to be canceled following a six-week review. This decision poses a potential threat to countries such as Pakistan and Bangladesh, which have historically received substantial funding through these programs.
According to Secretary Rubio, over 5,200 contracts totaling billions of dollars have been signed globally under USAID. The Secretary criticized these expenditures, indicating they do not align with America’s core national interests. The revised funding strategy will prioritize programs that specifically benefit the United States, allowing only 18% of the previous programs to continue, which amounts to nearly 1,000 different initiatives.
The DOGE team, as mentioned by Rubio, has worked diligently to identify the loopholes that permitted American funds to be misappropriated. Under previous USAID allocations, Bangladesh received $440 million, Pakistan $231 million, and Sri Lanka $123 million. The cessation of these funds has led to the interruption of various projects in these nations. Allegations have arisen that a portion of this funding was utilized for activities counterproductive to U.S. interests in the region, particularly concerning anti-India sentiments in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
In summary, President Trump’s recent decision to cancel a substantial portion of USAID funding reflects a shift in the United States’ foreign aid policy. Countries such as Pakistan and Bangladesh are likely to face significant challenges due to the loss of funding, which previously supported numerous development projects. The focus will now be on programs that directly serve American interests, highlighting a strategic recalibration in international aid allocation.
Original Source: www.india.com
