The U.S. Department of State, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, has initiated a review of all foreign assistance programs funded by the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This action follows President Trump's Executive Order aimed at reevaluating and realigning United States foreign aid.
Secretary Rubio's decision to pause all U.S. foreign assistance is intended to ensure that these programs align with the America First agenda and are efficient in serving U.S. foreign policy interests. The review aims to scrutinize how foreign assistance dollars are spent overseas.
President Trump emphasized that the United States will no longer provide financial aid without ensuring a return for American taxpayers. "Reviewing and realigning foreign assistance on behalf of hardworking taxpayers is not just the right thing to do, it is a moral imperative," he stated.
The directive reflects a clear mandate from American citizens to prioritize national interests in international engagements. Both the Department of State and USAID acknowledge their responsibility as stewards of taxpayer funds, reinforcing their commitment through this executive order.
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?”