Rubio Comments on Trump's Decision to Halt U.S. Foreign Aid Except for Egypt and Israel

 

Rubio Comments on Trump's Decision to Halt U.S. Foreign Aid Except for Egypt and Israel 

#### **U.S. Foreign Aid Policy Shift**  

**U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio** confirmed that while the **United States** will continue providing **international aid**, it will now be **more strategic and aligned with U.S. national interests**.  

Speaking at a **press conference in the Dominican Republic**, Rubio stated:  

> *"The United States will continue providing international aid, but it will be meaningful and serve our national interests."*  

This follows **former President Donald Trump’s** late **January decision** to **suspend most foreign aid programs**, including those for **Ukraine**, while **exempting Egypt and Israel**.  

#### **Impact on Ukraine Aid**  

Reports from **Politico** indicate that **Rubio ordered a 90-day suspension** on nearly all **foreign aid programs**, including those supporting **Ukraine**. However, according to the **Financial Times**, U.S. diplomats have **requested exceptions** for certain **Ukrainian aid programs**.  

Previously, U.S. military aid to **Ukraine** was delivered through:  

1. **The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAID)** – funding direct purchases of weapons and military equipment from U.S. companies.  

2. **Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA)** – allowing the **transfer of existing U.S. military stockpiles** without additional **Congressional approval**.  

Additionally, Ukraine received **financial and humanitarian aid** through various U.S. government programs.  

#### **Egypt and Israel: The Exceptions**  

Unlike other nations, **Egypt and Israel** will continue receiving **U.S. aid**, likely due to:  

- **Strategic regional interests** in the Middle East  

- **Longstanding military cooperation**  

- **Peace agreements tied to U.S. assistance**  

With this new policy, the **future of U.S. foreign aid** remains uncertain, especially for nations that heavily rely on **American military and economic support**.  

#### **#USForeignAid #MarcoRubio #DonaldTrump #Egypt #Israel #Ukraine #USAID #PDA #USPolitics #InternationalRelations #ForeignPolicy**