Overview

• 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.