UN Warns US Food Aid Cuts Could Prove Fatal for Millions
UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a grave warning, saying the United States’ decision to halt emergency food aid to 14 nations could lead to the deaths of millions already suffering from severe hunger.
Facing a significant 40% reduction in its funding this year, the WFP revealed it had been informed of the U.S. plan to cut assistance to these countries, though it did not publicly disclose which nations are affected.
“If this decision is carried out, it could result in a death sentence for millions facing extreme hunger and starvation,” the agency wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
This move is part of a broader trend under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, which has significantly scaled back international aid in favor of a more isolationist approach. As a result, multiple UN agencies are now feeling the financial strain.
The UN Population Fund, which focuses on sexual and reproductive health, confirmed that it had been notified of the termination of two of its U.S.-funded programs — one in Afghanistan and another in Syria.
The United States is not the only country reducing support for international humanitarian efforts. Several other donor nations have also slashed their aid contributions in recent months, sparking concern among NGOs and aid organizations.
The Trump administration has also severely reduced the role of USAID, the main channel for U.S. humanitarian funding. Once operating with an annual budget of $42.8 billion — nearly 42% of global aid disbursements — the agency has seen its capabilities drastically diminished.
The widespread funding cuts are threatening the survival of millions worldwide and have raised urgent calls for global solidarity in the face of escalating humanitarian crises.
