The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that the recent suspension of financial aid by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has negatively impacted at least 50 countries, disrupting ongoing health and development programs globally.
WHO reports that the suspension of billions of dollars in foreign aid by the Trump administration has affected crucial programs aimed at combating HIV, polio, monkeypox, and bird flu. According to WHO’s Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, HIV treatment and other essential services have been disrupted in these 50 countries, with clinics shutting down and health workers being sent on leave.
The suspension follows President Donald Trump’s move to freeze the USAID budget, citing concerns over what he deemed excessive and unexplained spending. As a result, key health initiatives have been halted, including HIV care, testing, and prevention services, which have had a severe impact on global health efforts.
During a press conference in Geneva, Dr. Tedros urged the Trump administration to reconsider its stance on the suspension, noting that it could have long-lasting and harmful effects on global health. He expressed concern that without adequate funding, the development of vaccines and new treatments could face significant delays.
Trump’s decision to cut USAID funding also involved massive staff reductions, eliminating the agency’s ability to carry out its usual activities. In January 2024, the Trump administration ceased financial assistance to all countries except Israel and Egypt, with plans to review the aid program within 85 days.
Liberty News’ international correspondent states this move aligns with Trump’s “America First” policy, which he had promised during his electoral campaign. Over the past five decades, the United States has provided over $8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh alone, including support for public health, education, energy, food security, and disaster management. In recent years, the US has contributed hundreds of millions of dollars annually to various projects in Bangladesh, but this could now be jeopardized by the suspension of aid.
LND/BAIZID
