Despite assurances from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, humanitarian aid funded by the United States has come to a significant halt worldwide. 🌍🛑
Earlier this week, Rubio announced a waiver to allow life-saving aid to continue during a 90-day review of U.S. foreign aid efforts. However, according to sources, nearly all projects managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) are currently at a standstill.
The freeze on aid comes amidst President Donald Trump's \\"America First\\" policy, which has led to a major restructuring of USAID. Since January 20, the administration has placed most USAID employees on administrative leave, reducing the workforce from over 10,000 to fewer than 300. This drastic cutback has left critical support systems inactive.
As a result, approximately 500,000 metric tons of food valued at $340 million are stuck in transit or storage, waiting for approval to be distributed. In regions like Sudan and Gaza, cash assistance meant to help people buy essential goods has also been halted. 🍽️
Humanitarian organizations are struggling to maintain operations without funding approvals, leaving many relief efforts in limbo. The suspension of the Famine Early Warning Systems Network further complicates the response to ongoing hunger crises.
In response to these developments, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Washington to continue its role as a global leader in humanitarian aid. 🕊️
Reference(s):
U.S. humanitarian aid stalled despite Rubio's assurance: sources
cgtn.com
