Trump Suspends Foreign Aid for 90 Days, Critics Warn Global Impact

President Donald Trump's recent 90-day freeze on foreign assistance has prompted widespread criticism, as experts warn it could embolden authoritarian regimes and undermine pro-democracy efforts globally. The suspension, which affects programs administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), halts crucial support for grassroots organizations fighting for democracy in countries like Venezuela, Cuba, and China. Critics emphasize that cutting funding for these initiatives sends a dangerous signal to dictatorships, potentially destabilizing already fragile democracies and allowing authoritarian leaders to consolidate power. The measure has also led to significant layoffs in aid organizations and disrupted programs essential for combating diseases and ensuring food security in vulnerable regions. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pointed to the need for a review of such programs, fears remain that the withdrawal of U.S. support will be exploited by rival powers like China and Russia. Trump's justification for the freeze, framed as a response to wasteful spending, has drawn backlash for its potential humanitarian consequences and its impact on global democratic movements.