The Trump administration has directed the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to overhaul its approach to foreign aid, aligning it with the “America First” policy. This shift comes with a stern warning of “disciplinary action” for employees who fail to comply.
A memo sent to over 10,000 USAID staff on Saturday outlined how the agency must implement the administration’s vision. The directive, reviewed by Reuters, followed Friday’s sweeping “stop-work” order that temporarily froze U.S. foreign aid globally.
“The President has given us an extraordinary opportunity to reshape foreign assistance for generations,” wrote Ken Jackson, assistant to the administrator for management and resources, in the memo titled “Message and Expectation to the Workforce.” Reuters verified the memo’s authenticity through multiple sources.
U.S. Aid Halted for Review
President Trump’s orders, issued shortly after taking office last week, imposed a 90-day pause on foreign aid to ensure alignment with his policy priorities. On Friday, the State Department expanded the freeze to include previously allocated funds, potentially halting billions of dollars in critical aid.
The United States, the largest single donor of foreign aid, provided $72 billion in assistance in fiscal year 2023. In 2024, it contributed 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the United Nations.
The halt shocked humanitarian organizations, which are now grappling with the implications of the policy. Immediate exceptions include emergency food assistance and returning U.S. officials, though waivers for emergency food delivery require detailed justifications.
Strict Oversight and Potential Impact
All foreign assistance programs will undergo a rigorous review, the memo stated, emphasizing that “it is no longer business as usual.” Programs will need USAID leadership and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s approval for any waiver.
The memo also banned external communications, including between USAID and the State Department, without prior approval. Noncompliance will result in disciplinary action, it warned.
Contractors have been instructed to halt work and suspend or amend current awards.
Concerns for Vulnerable Populations
The directive’s impact on life-saving aid, particularly in crisis zones like famine-stricken Sudan, has raised alarm. The U.S. provided nearly half of Sudan’s humanitarian aid in 2024, yet the new policy leaves critical gaps in services beyond emergency food relief.
“Hunger weakens immune systems, making people more vulnerable to disease and death,” said Deepmala Mahla, chief humanitarian officer for CARE. “This isn’t just about funding—it’s about survival in conflict zones.”
The United Nations and other organizations fear the policy’s effects on vulnerable populations. Many life-saving operations may face delays or suspensions, leaving millions at greater risk.