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The decision by President Donald Trump to suspend U.S. foreign aid for 90 days could have significant consequences for the global balance of power, warned experts in international politics.
According to analysts consulted by Associated Press, this measure could strengthen authoritarian regimes by reducing support for democratic governments and human rights organizations in crisis countries.
The suspension affects numerous programs funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which have been essential in promoting democracy and providing humanitarian assistance in countries such as Venezuela, Cuba, China, and Belarus, including those of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED).
Analysts indicate that the interruption of these funds sends a negative signal to dictatorships and undermines democratic efforts worldwide.
Moreover, the freezing of aid has led to massive layoffs and the closure of essential programs in various parts of the world, reports AP.
In Africa, for example, projects aimed at combating diseases, improving education, and providing food have been abruptly interrupted, putting millions of people who rely on this assistance at risk.
In response to the criticisms, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the measure, arguing that it is necessary to review each program to ensure they align with the national interests of the United States.
However, it has added more exemptions for humanitarian programs that provide medicines, food, and shelter, in an effort to mitigate the impact of the suspension.
Despite these exemptions, uncertainty persists among aid organizations and foreign governments that rely on U.S. assistance. Many fear that the reduction in foreign aid could be exploited by powers like China and Russia to expand their influence in vulnerable regions, filling the void left by the United States.
In this context, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla criticized the position of the United States regarding foreign aid, noting that "the U.S. government is now alarmed by millions of dollars in corrupt operations of the #NED in various countries with funds from American taxpayers. They should review how many in that country have enriched themselves by organizing destabilization and terrorism against #Cuba with the support of that organization."
USAID has played a crucial role in U.S. foreign policy, focusing on the promotion of democracy, economic development, and humanitarian assistance in over 100 countries.
However, following President Donald Trump's arrival in the White House, significant changes that impact its operation and mission have been implemented.
Following Trump's announcement to freeze foreign aid, Elon Musk, director of the Government Efficiency Department, announced the intention to close USAID, labeling it a "criminal organization" and a "bundle of worms."
Later, the Secretary of State assumed the position of acting administrator of USAID and announced its merger with the Department of State. These actions have generated controversy and debates regarding their legality, given the mandate established for the creation of USAID in the Foreign Assistance Act.
These decisions have sparked criticism both nationally and internationally. Non-governmental organizations and development experts warn that the reduction of foreign aid and the dissolution of USAID could undermine humanitarian and development efforts worldwide, negatively impacting the most vulnerable populations.
In the Cuban context, USAID has been involved in controversial programs, such as the creation of the social network ZunZuneo, known as "Cuban Twitter," which aimed to encourage dissent on the island. These initiatives have been criticized by the Cuban government, which views them as attempts at destabilization.
Impact of Trump's Freeze on Foreign Aid
How does the freeze on foreign aid affect authoritarian regimes?
The suspension of foreign assistance by the United States could strengthen authoritarian regimes by reducing support for democratic governments and human rights organizations. The lack of aid could be exploited by powers such as China and Russia to expand their influence in vulnerable regions.
Which programs are affected by the freeze on U.S. foreign aid?
The freeze impacts numerous programs financed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which have been crucial in promoting democracy and providing humanitarian assistance. Projects in Africa to combat diseases and provide food, as well as initiatives in countries like Venezuela and Cuba, have been halted.
What are the consequences of the suspension of funds for media and NGOs in Cuba?
The suspension of funds severely impacts independent press and NGOs that promote democratization in Cuba. This leaves their operations and funding sources in uncertainty, weakening their ability to inform and operate on the island.
What criticisms has the Trump administration received for freezing foreign aid?
The Trump administration has faced criticism both nationally and internationally. Non-governmental organizations and development experts warn that the cut in foreign aid could undermine humanitarian and development efforts worldwide. In the Cuban context, the measure is seen as a blow to efforts to promote democracy and human rights on the island.
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