Trump to Sign Executive Order Halting New Foreign Aid Aligned with U.S. Strategic Interests

Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on his first day in office that will freeze all new foreign aid unless it aligns with U.S. strategic interests. The order seeks to halt funds from going to organizations or countries that promote agendas contrary to U.S. values, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion, or those linked to terrorist groups. One immediate target could be the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which has faced criticism for alleged ties to Hamas.

Trump’s policy aims to ensure that U.S. taxpayers’ money is spent in a way that supports American interests, not organizations that could work against U.S. security or promote instability. This order is a direct extension of his “America First” philosophy, focusing on ensuring that foreign aid is tied to strategic, diplomatic, and security goals that benefit the U.S. The new approach will subject all foreign aid to review by the Secretary of State, ensuring it supports U.S. foreign policy.

This move follows Trump’s previous cuts to foreign aid during his first term, where he raised concerns about aid programs that did not benefit the U.S. or its strategic goals. It also reflects ongoing Republican scrutiny of U.S. aid programs, with lawmakers questioning the appropriateness of giving money to organizations with links to terrorism or instability, such as the Taliban in Afghanistan or groups in Pakistan with ties to Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The executive order is expected to impact aid to various regions and organizations, signaling a more stringent approach to U.S. foreign assistance. In addition to halting foreign aid, unless aligned with U.S. interests, the policy will introduce a more rigorous review process for any new funds, with approval required from the Secretary of State or a designated official.

This order, alongside other anticipated executive actions during Trump’s first week, demonstrates his commitment to reshaping U.S. foreign policy to prioritize national security and strategic alliances while rethinking the country’s role in international aid.