Trump administration halts USAID aid, Latin America faces fallout
The Trump administration has announced an almost complete shutdown of USAID assistance programs, which could significantly impact Latin American countries.
President Donald Trump’s administration announced on Thursday that it has almost eliminated foreign aid programs carried out by USAID. This decision means that the State Department has taken over control of these programs.
The statement noted that a review of USAID activities conducted under the supervision of the US Secretary of State eliminated almost 5,800 contracts valued at $54 billion, representing as much as 92% of all agreements. Additionally, it was decided to reduce 28% of American foreign subsidies, which were expected to amount to $4.4 billion.
The media in Latin America remind us that one of Trump’s first decisions upon assuming the presidency was freezing USAID programs. This decision threatens the implementation of many key investment programs in the region, which are crucial for the economy and the standard of living of communities.
Implications for Latin America
In 2023, Latin America's global aid value under USAID amounted to $1.7 billion. Haiti, being the poorest country in the region and affected by a civil war led by gangs, was supposed to receive $316 million this year.
The Trump administration's decision to almost wind entirely down USAID assistance programs could have significant consequences for Latin American countries, which relied on this aid to carry out key development projects.
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