Washington’s Decision and Its Regional Consequences
U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze foreign aid for 90 days has sent shockwaves through Eastern Europe. Pro-democracy organizations, independent media, civil society groups, and local governments across the region—often caught between East and West—are now struggling to adapt, reports VOA.
According to the U.S. State Department, the pause aims to eliminate unnecessary expenditures and block so-called “woke” programs that conflict with national interests. The move aligns with Trump’s “America First” agenda and raises concerns about the sustainability of vital initiatives.
The Role of U.S. Aid in Eastern Europe
Since the 1990s, USAID has invested billions of dollars in countries like Moldova, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina—nations aspiring to join the European Union. These funds have supported democratic reforms, infrastructure development, energy security, economic growth, and numerous NGOs and independent media outlets.
The impact of the aid freeze is significant across multiple sectors, underscoring the importance of U.S. financial support in the region.
Serbia and Kosovo: Political and Economic Fallout
Serbia, an EU candidate since 2012, maintains close ties with Russia and China. Under the leadership of populist President Aleksandar Vučić, reforms in rule of law and anti-corruption efforts have been slow. The suspension of USAID funding could further hinder progress.
Nemanja Nenadić of Transparency International Serbia noted that the freeze has already affected a USAID-backed public finance monitoring project designed to train local NGOs.
In Kosovo, where foreign assistance—primarily from the U.S.—plays a crucial role, the situation is equally dire. Sitrim Dervisholi, Executive Director of the Kosovo Prefabricated Buildings Association, emphasized the negative impact on technical training and grant access for local businesses.
“We rely heavily on U.S. aid, and we sincerely hope this measure is reversed after the 90-day period,” she stated.
Economic analyst Safet Gerdžaliu warned that the aid suspension could severely impact Kosovo’s government, private sector, and education system, exacerbating financial struggles as the country faces EU sanctions.
Moldova: A Democratic Ally at Risk
Moldova, a frontline state in the geopolitical struggle between the West and Russia, has benefited significantly from U.S. aid. Valeriu Pasa, chairman of the WatchDog research center in Chișinău, stated that Moldovan democracy largely exists thanks to American financial support.
“A more democratic and developed Moldova serves U.S. interests by preventing Russian or Chinese influence from taking hold,” he noted.
Impact on Independent Media
The aid freeze threatens dozens of independent news outlets in over 30 countries, according to the Brussels-based European Federation of Journalists (EFJ).
EFJ President Maja Sever urged other donors to step in, stating, “The EU and other stakeholders must not abandon journalists who are the last line of defense for democracy and the rule of law in fragile states.”
Oksana Gradkenko, director of Moldova.org, expressed concern about the sudden loss of U.S. funding. “We thought the cuts would be partial, but this is a shock. American funds support not only NGOs and media but also local governments and public institutions.”
A Geopolitical Vacuum for Russia and China?
Eastern Europe has long been a battleground for Western and Russian geopolitical interests. Many fear that the absence of U.S. funding will leave Washington’s allies vulnerable, creating a power vacuum that Moscow and Beijing will exploit.
“In Moldova, foreign donor support is crucial to counterbalance Russian-backed media outlets. Without U.S. assistance, the country risks being dominated by pro-Kremlin narratives,” Gradkenko warned.
Threat to Election Transparency
For Moldova’s pro-democracy organization Promo-LEKS, USAID funding constitutes 75-80% of its budget. These funds support election monitoring, political finance oversight, and parliamentary scrutiny.
“With past Russian interference, illegal campaign financing, and political corruption, our monitoring mission is essential for election transparency. Without U.S. support, these efforts are at serious risk,” said Ion Manole, Promo-LEKS’ executive director.
Uncertain Future for U.S. Foreign Aid
During the 90-day suspension, U.S. agencies will reassess their foreign funding programs, determining whether aid will continue, be modified, or be permanently halted.
Neither the State Department nor USAID has responded to requests for comment.
