U.S. humanitarian aid programs have ground to a near-total halt worldwide, contradicting assurances from Secretary of State Marco Rubio about continued support, according to internal sources and aid workers. The freeze comes as the Trump administration pushes a 90-day review of foreign aid spending under its \"America First\" policy framework.
Policy vs. Reality
Despite Rubio's recent waiver authorizing \"life-saving\" aid during the review, multiple USAID staff and contractors confirmed to China Media Group that nearly all projects are suspended. The agency – which manages $34 billion in annual non-military aid – faces massive workforce reductions, with plans to cut 97% of its 10,000+ global employees.
Global Consequences Unfold
- 500,000 metric tons of food ($340M) stuck in transit/storage
- Cash assistance programs frozen in Sudan and Gaza
- Famine Early Warning Systems Network shutdown
- UN warns of \"dire\" impacts on emergency response efforts
A federal court temporarily blocked layoffs for 2,200 employees until February 14, but aid agencies report confusion over approved operations as staff vacancies disrupt supply chains.
Political Overhaul Meets Pushback
President Trump criticized USAID as \"corrupt\" in a Truth Social post, while UN Secretary-General AntĂłnio Guterres urged Washington to maintain its aid leadership role. Analysts warn the suspension could exacerbate food insecurity for millions in conflict zones and climate-vulnerable regions.
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U.S. humanitarian aid stalled despite Rubio's assurance: sources
cgtn.com
