United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the U.S. administration to reconsider its decision to implement significant cuts in foreign aid, warning that these reductions will have “devastating” consequences for the world’s most vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the UN headquarters, Guterres emphasized that such cuts would make the world “less healthy, less secure, and less prosperous.” He argued that reducing the U.S. humanitarian role goes against American global interests and called on Washington to rethink its decision.
The cuts, implemented under the “America First” agenda, have slashed $60 billion in foreign aid, including the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The U.S., previously the largest donor of humanitarian aid, provided $14 billion in 2024, representing over 40% of total contributions. In contrast, Germany, the second-largest donor, contributed $2.7 billion.
The UN and humanitarian agencies have expressed concerns about the impact of these reductions on global aid programs. According to a UN spokesperson, over 9,100 aid projects valued at $15.9 billion have been reviewed, with 4,100 projects worth $4.4 billion marked for elimination. Additionally, USAID has identified 5,800 projects with a total remaining value of $54 billion for cancellation, representing a 92% reduction.
The drastic cuts signal a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, which had historically viewed humanitarian assistance as a key strategic tool. Guterres reiterated that UN agencies remain open to discussions with the U.S. government and are ready to provide any necessary justifications for their programs.
