In a surprise move that bears the hallmark of “America First,” the Trump administration has ordered a freeze on nearly all U.S. foreign aid, except for military assistance to Israel, Egypt, and emergency food aid, the Kiev Post reported.
On January 25, US President Donald Trump confirmed that he had suspended US foreign aid. "On day one, I directed every member of my cabinet to mobilize every possible power to defeat inflation and reduce the cost of living. We want to bring prices down. I have imposed a federal hiring freeze, a federal regulatory freeze, a foreign aid freeze," Trump said at a rally in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 25.
Just days after his inauguration, President Donald Trump issued an executive order halting funding for most international aid programs, including military assistance to Ukraine. This move could make it much more difficult for Ukraine to defend its territory against Russian pressure.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued an internal memo, ordering all relevant agencies to immediately suspend foreign aid programs unless approved by the new administration.
According to the memo, seen by AFP, “no funds will be allocated for new programs or renewals of existing programs until each proposal has been reviewed and approved,” reflecting the Trump administration’s strong shift to a foreign policy that prioritizes domestic interests.
Secretary Rubio stressed that the suspension of aid is to ensure that federal programs are not duplicated, operate effectively and are consistent with the “America First” policy.
However, the decision has been met with deep concern from key allies such as Ukraine and Jordan. The US has been one of Ukraine’s largest donors since Russia launched a full-scale military campaign in 2022, and cutting off aid could weaken Kiev’s ability to defend itself.
Despite the restrictions, the freeze makes exceptions for military aid to Israel and Egypt. The US has pledged significant security aid to Israel, especially amid escalating tensions in Gaza. Egypt, a longtime US ally, has continued to receive support after signing a 1979 peace treaty with Israel.
Emergency food aid was also withheld, reflecting the State Department's humanitarian stance, even as the Trump administration is reshaping its entire approach to international commitments.
The above moves signal a drastic shift in US policy in prioritizing national interests. With its wide-ranging impact, this decision could cause shockwaves to countries receiving US aid, including Ukraine.
