In the wake of President Donald Trump’s executive order pausing foreign aid, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a clarification memo that has provided a measure of relief to humanitarian organizations worldwide.
The memo, which came after significant confusion and operational disruptions, allows the continuation of crucial “life-saving” humanitarian assistance, even as many other programs remain suspended for review.
The memo defines lifesaving aid to include “core medicine, medical services, food, shelter, and subsistence assistance,” along with the necessary administrative costs to deliver such assistance. However, programs related to abortion, family planning, transgender surgeries, and gender-focused initiatives are excluded from this waiver.
The decision to freeze foreign aid had sparked widespread concern, with agencies like the UNHCR and USAID halting operations, potentially affecting millions of people relying on US support for everything from food and medical supplies to critical relief in conflict zones. Humanitarian groups had feared the suspension would jeopardize efforts to combat diseases like HIV/AIDS, reduce famine relief efforts, and slow down vital de-mining projects.
Aid organizations found themselves in limbo, waiting for clarification on which activities would qualify for exemptions under the waiver. The original directive caused chaos, with staff layoffs and program terminations becoming a reality for many organizations. Affected groups included those working in countries with high levels of displacement, such as Syria, where Virginia-based Blumont had already paused its operations at detention camps before receiving word of the waiver.
The US has long been a leader in global humanitarian aid, and the Trump administration’s “America First” approach has caused friction with some aid groups, particularly when it comes to financial accountability and policy alignment with US interests. However, the recent adjustment by Rubio ensures that vital services can continue, and the US will still contribute significantly to alleviating global suffering through initiatives that directly align with its priorities.
As many organizations await further clarification, some feel that the revised approach by the Trump administration could serve as an opportunity to reevaluate foreign aid programs for effectiveness and relevance. While concerns remain over the uncertainty caused by the review process, the memo’s release offers a sense of direction and temporary relief for humanitarian workers and the people who depend on their aid.
The Washington Post, the Guardian, and the Wall Street Journal contributed to this report.
