United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern following the sweeping decision by President Donald Trump’s administration to freeze virtually all US foreign aid. The United States, long regarded as the world’s largest foreign aid donor, announced the suspension on Friday, January 26, 2025, through an internal memo signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The directive exempts only emergency food supplies and military assistance to Israel and Egypt, leaving critical global development and humanitarian programs in limbo. Guterres, in a statement issued by his spokesman, urged the US to reconsider its position and include additional exemptions to sustain life-saving initiatives for vulnerable communities worldwide.
“This pause in US foreign assistance is deeply worrying. Development and humanitarian activities are essential for millions who depend on this support for their lives and livelihoods,” Guterres stated. He reaffirmed his willingness to engage with the Trump administration to address these concerns and ensure continued international cooperation.
The order has far-reaching implications, halting aid to countries such as Ukraine, which previously received billions in military support under President Joe Biden to resist Russian aggression. Also affected is PEPFAR, the widely acclaimed anti-HIV/AIDS program that provides life-saving anti-retroviral drugs to millions in developing countries, primarily in Africa.
Analysts have noted that the move reflects President Trump’s “America First” policy, aimed at prioritizing domestic interests over international commitments. While Washington has historically used foreign aid as a strategic tool to contrast its global leadership with China’s resource-driven diplomacy, the aid freeze has sparked widespread criticism from international bodies and advocacy groups.
Exceptions to the freeze include military assistance for Israel, a long-time US ally whose arms packages have expanded following the Gaza war, and Egypt. Emergency food aid for humanitarian crises, such as those in Sudan and Syria, was also spared.
The decision underscores a sharp shift in US foreign policy, with Trump fulfilling his campaign promise to re-evaluate America’s role in global development. However, it raises concerns about the potential fallout for millions who depend on US aid for survival.
