Fact Check: 60 billion in humanitarian aid slashed by Trump administration.

Fact Check: "60 billion in humanitarian aid slashed by Trump administration"

What We Know

The claim that the Trump administration slashed $60 billion in humanitarian aid is substantiated by multiple reports. According to the Associated Press, the Trump administration announced plans to eliminate over 90% of the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) foreign aid contracts, which amounted to a total cut of approximately $60 billion in overall U.S. assistance globally. This drastic reduction was part of a broader strategy to streamline foreign aid programs, which the administration characterized as wasteful and misaligned with U.S. interests.

Further corroboration comes from NPR, which reported that the administration terminated thousands of USAID grants and awards, leading to significant cuts in humanitarian assistance. The State Department confirmed that these terminations were part of a review process aimed at ensuring taxpayer dollars were used effectively. The cuts included vital programs that provided humanitarian aid and health services, particularly in regions facing crises.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, with both the Associated Press and NPR providing detailed accounts of the cuts made by the Trump administration. The Associated Press reported that the administration's actions would leave few surviving USAID projects, indicating a significant retreat from U.S. aid commitments that have historically aimed to stabilize foreign nations and promote global health and development.

The NPR report highlights the immediate consequences of these cuts, noting that many organizations providing essential services, such as HIV testing and treatment, were forced to suspend operations due to the funding freeze. This aligns with statements from humanitarian officials who described the situation as a "global health massacre," underscoring the severe implications of the aid reductions.

In evaluating the reliability of these sources, both the Associated Press and NPR are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. Their coverage of the Trump administration's foreign aid policy is consistent with other reports from reputable outlets, reinforcing the credibility of the information presented.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that the Trump administration slashed $60 billion in humanitarian aid is accurate, supported by credible sources detailing the significant reductions in USAID funding and the termination of numerous aid programs. The administration's actions reflect a substantial shift in U.S. foreign aid policy, with far-reaching consequences for humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Sources

1. Trump administration says it's cutting 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts
2. The Trump administration kills nearly all USAID programs
3. Alison (company) - Wikipedia
4. The Evolution of Trump's Views on Foreign Aid
5. Best free certificate courses | Alison
6. Trump's aid cuts cause thousands of deaths around the world