Trump's Foreign Aid Overhaul: A Controversial Cutback

The Trump administration, led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has canceled over 80% of USAID programs after a review to align with 'America First' policy, impacting global aid efforts. In collaboration with Elon Musk's Dept of Government Efficiency, the reform aims for more effective management, sparking controversy.

In a surprising move, the Trump administration has axed more than 80% of the programs managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday. This decision follows a six-week review aimed at aligning aid efforts with the 'America First' policy under President Donald Trump.

The cancellation of 5,200 contracts, valued at tens of billions of dollars, has disrupted global humanitarian efforts, impacting life-saving initiatives around the world. Despite waivers for critical aid, many workers reported halted funding, leaving thousands of staff unemployed. The remaining programs are set to be managed more effectively by the State Department, consulting Congress.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency played a key role in these cost-cutting measures, although internal disagreements emerged during recent Cabinet meetings. While Trump asserts final decisions rest with agency heads, collaboration with Musk continues. The trio, along with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, met to discuss reforms at Mar-a-Lago over the weekend.

(With inputs from agencies.)