United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised concerns following the United States’ decision to freeze nearly all foreign aid, urging the new administration to consider additional exemptions to ensure vital humanitarian and development support continues.
The freeze, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday, is part of President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, which seeks to reduce overseas spending.
The memo dated 27th January, 2025, exempts emergency food aid and military assistance to Israel and Egypt, but halts most other aid, including funding for critical programs like PEPFAR, which provides anti-retroviral drugs to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa.
“The Secretary-General notes with concern the announcement of a pause in US foreign assistance,” Guterres’ spokesman said in a statement. “He calls for additional exemptions to ensure the continued delivery of critical development and humanitarian activities.”
Guterres stressed that aid is crucial for the most vulnerable communities worldwide, whose lives are at risk without it. “The most vulnerable populations around the world depend on this support for their survival,” he added.
The freeze affects numerous programs, including military aid to Ukraine, which has been receiving US support to defend itself against Russian aggression. Despite the uncertainty, Guterres remains hopeful, saying he looks forward to engaging with the new administration to address the issue and find solutions for the ongoing challenges.
