The Donald Trump administration ordered a stop in the supply of medical aid related to HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis as well as the supplies of drugs and equipment meant for newborns in USAID-supported countries, according to a memo reviewed by Reuters.
The decision is part of Donald Trump's 90-day pause in foreign development assistance. (AP)
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
Some of the contractors and partners, working with USAID, Tuesday received notification of ceasing their related work right away, according to reports from Reuters sources.
One such memo was sent to Chemonics, a major US consulting firm that collaborates with USAID to supply crucial medicines and aid globally.
"This is catastrophic," said Atul Gawande, former head of global health at USAID who left the agency this month. "Donated drug supplies keeping 20 million people living with HIV alive. That stops today."
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
{{^usCountry}}
He further added that the disruption might put at risk care for 20 million people living with HIV and raise the prospect of more dangerous drug-resistant strains.
{{/usCountry}}
{{#usCountry}}
He further added that the disruption might put at risk care for 20 million people living with HIV and raise the prospect of more dangerous drug-resistant strains.
{{/usCountry}}
Likewise, many partners who had been receiving aid from the United States were told that they would no longer be allowed to dispense medicines in clinics even if they were available, nor could they open clinics funded by the United States.
Reportedly, the Trump administration sent over 60 senior career officials at USAID on leave.
Donald Trump's 90-day aid policy review
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
The decision is part of Trump's 90-day pause in foreign development assistance on January 20, the day he took the oath of office, pending assessments of efficiencies and consistency with the US foreign policy.
Through this action, the Trump administration is reportedly reassessing the alignment of the US global aid programs with broader foreign policy goals.
In its fiscal year 2023 under the Biden-Harris administration, the United States spent foreign assistance of $72 billion, making up 42 per cent of the total amount of humanitarian spending reported to the United Nations in 2024.
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.
Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
Home/World News/Us News/Donald Trump halts critical global health aid related to HIV, malaria, childcare; leaves 20 million lives at risk
{{^htLoading}}
Advertisement
{{/htLoading}}
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
{{#usCountry}}{{/usCountry}}
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe
