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The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has announced the cancellation of 83% of the programs of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which means the termination of 5,200 contracts.
Rubio justified this decision by arguing that "tens of billions of dollars" had been spent on initiatives that either served no purpose or even harmed the fundamental national interests of the United States
"In consultation with Congress, we aim for the remaining 18% of the programs we maintain (approximately 1,000) to be managed more efficiently now under the State Department,” said the U.S. official via the social media platform X.
This measure affects the majority of the 10,000 employees of USAID, of which more than 9,500 will be laid off according to current plans.
The decision has sparked criticism and legal actions. Two organizations representing various NGOs and aid recipients have reported the interruption of funding for ongoing programs, warning of the negative impact on vulnerable communities.
The Supreme Court of the United States denied a request to block a court order requiring the payment of nearly 2 billion dollars in previously frozen agency funds, marking a setback for the administration's efforts to restrict foreign aid.
Additionally, internal tensions within the administration have been reported. Recently, Rubio and Elon Musk, director of the Office of Government Efficiency (DOGE), had a confrontation during a meeting at the White House, related to the management and efficiency of USAID.
Rubio assumed the role of acting administrator of USAID in February. This decision is part of a significant restructuring of the agency under President Donald Trump's administration, aimed at aligning its operations with U.S. foreign policy interests.
During his tenure, Rubio has criticized USAID for acting like a "global charity" and not properly promoting the national interests of the United States.
This stance has led to the suspension of funds allocated to independent media and non-governmental organizations in Latin America, including CubaNet, a portal that received U.S. funding to promote democracy and human rights in Cuba.
Frequently asked questions about the cancellation of USAID programs by Marco Rubio
What percentage of USAID programs has been canceled by Marco Rubio?
Marco Rubio has announced the cancellation of 83% of USAID programs. This decision involves the termination of 5,200 contracts and affects more than 9,500 employees who will be laid off. Only 18% of the programs will be managed more effectively under the Department of State.
What is the reason behind the cancellation of USAID programs?
Marco Rubio justified the cancellation of USAID programs by pointing out that "tens of billions of dollars" had been spent on initiatives that were ineffective or even harmful to the national interests of the United States. The measure aims to align foreign aid with the interests of U.S. foreign policy.
How does this decision affect organizations in Cuba?
The cancellation of USAID funds has significant consequences for independent media and NGOs in Cuba that relied on this support. The suspension of funds jeopardizes the continuity of projects that promoted democracy and human rights on the island. Without these resources, the Cuban government could intensify its propaganda and repression.
What criticisms have been raised about the cancellation of USAID programs?
The cancellation of USAID programs has generated significant criticism. Non-governmental organizations and beneficiaries have reported the disruption of ongoing program funding, arguing that it could have serious consequences for vulnerable communities that depend on them. Internal tensions within the administration and criticisms from Democratic lawmakers have also been reported.
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