The U.S. Department of State, under the leadership of Secretary Marco Rubio, has initiated a comprehensive review of all foreign assistance programs. This action aligns with President Trump's Executive Order aimed at reevaluating and realigning United States foreign aid to ensure its efficiency and consistency with U.S. foreign policy.
Secretary Rubio has temporarily halted all U.S. foreign assistance funded by or through the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) pending this review. The initiative is part of the broader "America First" agenda advocated by President Trump.
President Trump emphasized that the United States will no longer distribute funds without ensuring returns for American citizens. He stated, "Reviewing and realigning foreign assistance on behalf of hardworking taxpayers is not just the right thing to do, it is a moral imperative." The Secretary aims to protect America's investments through careful examination of overseas spending.
The administration's directive reflects a clear mandate from American citizens to prioritize national interests. Both the Department and USAID are committed to responsibly managing taxpayer funds in accordance with this mandate.
Secretary Rubio articulated his approach by stating, “Every dollar we spend, every program we fund, and every policy we pursue must be justified with the answer to three simple questions: Does it make America safer? Does it make America stronger? Does it make America more prosperous?”