The U.S. State Department has announced a 90-day suspension on foreign aid spending, following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20th. The order, titled “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid,” mandates a comprehensive review of all U.S. foreign assistance programs to ensure alignment with the administration’s policy objectives.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued immediate guidance to all diplomatic and consular posts, requiring department staff to issue “stop-work orders” on nearly all existing foreign assistance awards. According to documents obtained by Politico, the guidance also imposes strict limitations on new obligations and funding opportunities.
The memo, issued by State Department appointee Peter Marocco, outlines that no new foreign aid obligations can be made unless reviewed and approved by the Secretary of State. Contracting and grant officers are required to suspend activities for existing programs in line with their current award terms. Additionally, no new solicitations or publications related to foreign aid can be released without explicit authorization.
Exceptions to the suspension are limited to military aid for key allies like Israel and Egypt, as well as emergency food assistance. However, this freeze is expected to disrupt billions of dollars in global aid programs that support health, education, and development initiatives. Programs such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, could face significant challenges.
Humanitarian organizations are voicing serious concerns. They warn that delays or cancellations in aid could lead to devastating consequences for vulnerable populations, particularly in areas of food insecurity, healthcare, and education. Advocacy groups have described the situation as potentially life-threatening for many, according to AP News.
The executive order gives the State Department 90 days to review each foreign assistance program. Those deemed effective and aligned with U.S. policy objectives may resume earlier if approved by the Secretary of State in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget.
Critics argue that this move signals a dramatic shift in U.S. foreign policy, prioritizing fiscal scrutiny and political alignment over long-standing humanitarian commitments. As the review process unfolds, lawmakers, aid organizations, and global stakeholders are closely monitoring the impact of this suspension.
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