US Cuts 83% of International Aid Programs in Major Restructuring

The Trump administration has dismantled most USAID initiatives, reallocating oversight to the State Department while facing backlash over humanitarian impacts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the termination of 5,200 out of 6,200 USAID programs following a six-week review led by a government efficiency team headed by Elon Musk.
The remaining 1,000 programs will be managed by the State Department, with claims of increased efficiency and alignment with US national interests.
Critics, including major humanitarian organizations like Oxfam, warn of severe consequences for global health and food security, with millions potentially losing access to vital aid and services.
The cuts aim to save $54 billion, but legal challenges persist over frozen funds and the legality of bypassing congressional approval for program closures.
USAID, established in 1961, has been a key player in disaster relief and global health initiatives, with operations in over 100 countries now significantly scaled back.