Trump administration temporarily halts aid to Pakistan

ANS: The Trump administration has temporarily halted foreign aid to Pakistan for re-evaluation following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump after his inauguration on January 20, media reports confirmed.

An official at the US Consulate in Karachi verified the suspension to Pakistan’s Geo News, which stated that several important USAID projects in Pakistan, including the flagship Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), were immediately affected. The AFCP supports cultural heritage preservation worldwide, including historic buildings, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions.

Additionally, five energy-related projects have been paused, including initiatives in power sector improvement, clean energy, and climate financing. Four economic growth programs, such as the Social Protection Activity, which was set to conclude in 2025, have also been impacted.

According to the reports, the exact value of the suspended projects remains unclear.

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce explained that the suspension aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order on Reevaluating and Realigning U.S. Foreign Aid. The review aims to ensure that foreign aid programs are efficient and aligned with U.S. foreign policy under the “America First” agenda.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that foreign assistance must meet specific criteria: enhancing American safety, strength, and prosperity. Trump’s executive orders, covering issues like immigration and climate change, are already starting to affect policy, though some, like birthright citizenship, face legal challenges.