WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — The Trump administration’s recent decision to eliminate the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has sparked concern amongst Democratic lawmakers, humanitarian organizations, and international partners. Critics warn that shuttering the agency could have dire consequences for global health initiatives, poverty alleviation, and U.S. foreign policy interests.
USAID, established in 1961, has been a pillar of American foreign assistance, operating in over 100 countries to address issues ranging from disease prevention to economic development. In 2024, the agency managed approximately $30 billion in aid, making it a significant player in global humanitarian efforts.
The closure directive, part of a broader government reduction strategy led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has led to immediate disruptions. Reports indicate that in sub-Saharan Africa, HIV patients have encountered locked doors at clinics previously funded by USAID, jeopardizing treatment continuity.
In South America, USAID has been instrumental in environmental conservation and anti-narcotics efforts. The agency’s Partnership for the Conservation of Amazon Biodiversity in Brazil focuses on preserving the rainforest and supporting indigenous communities. In Peru, USAID’s funding has supported alternative development programs to reduce coca cultivation, including coffee and cacao farming.
The decision has also raised concerns about U.S. national security and geopolitical influence. Some Republican lawmakers fear that eliminating programs critical for countering China’s global presence could undermine U.S. strategic interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly exploring ways to maintain essential initiatives despite the closure order.
Religious groups sounded an alarm over the potential humanitarian impact. The Vatican charity organization, Caritas Internationalis, condemned the reductions in assistance, stating millions would be driven deeper into poverty and death. Cardinal Michael Czerny called for prudent budget reviews that continue aid to at-risk communities.
But Trump administration officials have pointed to unchecked spending on initiatives that don’t necessarily align with USAID’s original mission.
As the Feb. 14 deadline approaches, a federal court ordered the agency’s closure temporarily, providing stakeholders with a reprieve with which to battle for the survival of USAID. The coming days will determine the future of U.S. foreign aid and its international reach.
