Trump Administration Cancels 83% of USAID Programs Following Review

Secretary of State Marco Rubio cites misaligned spending and ideological agendas as reasons for the overhaul of U.S. foreign aid programs.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the cancellation of 5,200 USAID contracts, representing 83% of the agency's programs, after a six-week review process.
The administration states that tens of billions of dollars were spent on initiatives that did not align with U.S. national interests and, in some cases, caused harm.
Examples of controversial spending included funding for ideological projects such as DEI initiatives, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and cultural programs in countries with pressing development needs.
Critics argue that the canceled programs promoted ideological agendas rather than addressing humanitarian or developmental priorities in recipient nations.
The remaining 18% of USAID programs will be managed by the State Department, with a focus on improved efficiency and alignment with U.S. interests.