Trump Cuts $4.9 Billion Aid, Impacting World

• Trump administration cancels $4.9 billion in foreign aid using a rare 'pocket rescission'.
• Funding cuts affect global health, UN programs, peacekeeping, and democratic initiatives.
• This move raises legal questions over presidential power and bypassing Congress.

In a move that's raising eyebrows globally, the Trump administration took steps to cancel $4.9 billion in foreign aid. This decision, using a rarely-used budgetary tool, is reshaping the landscape of international assistance.

Aid Cut Announced

The Trump administration moved to cancel $4.9 billion in foreign aid previously approved by Congress. This cancellation impacts funding for development assistance, the UN, international peacekeeping, and promoting democratic values. The administration's actions have been met with mixed reactions globally. This includes cutting funds for global health and HIV/AIDS programs, initiatives that previously attempted to be frozen.

Pocket Rescission Explained

The administration employed a 'pocket rescission', a tool allowing a president to request Congress not spend already authorized funds, usually towards the fiscal year's end (September 30th). It is the first time in almost five decades a U.S. president utilized this. This aligns with a broader trend of expanding executive control in the federal government and is seen as bypassing Congress.

Funds Impacted Areas

The rescinded funds included $3.2 billion for development assistance grants, $520 million for the United Nations, $838 million for international peacekeeping, and $322 million for democracy promotion. This included funding for critical global health initiatives and HIV/AIDS programs, reflecting a shift in priorities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the agency’s shutdown on social media.

Wider Implications Considered

The actions have led to legal challenges about presidential power boundaries. The administration also appealed to the Supreme Court to block rulings preserving certain aid programs. The dismantling of USAID, and its transfer to the State Department reflects the changes in the government. This move could set a precedent enabling future presidents to sidestep Congress on spending.

Past Actions Reviewed

During his tenure, the former US President dismissed federal employees, raised tariffs without congressional approval, and challenged institutions. The administration announced plans to eliminate nearly all of USAID’s foreign assistance contracts, amounting to around $60 billion in global aid. Many of these decisions sparked legal battles regarding the limits of presidential power.