In a move that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic and political circles, the United States, under the Trump administration, has frozen foreign assistance grants, including substantial aid to Ukraine. This decision is part of a broader audit of US foreign aid programs initiated by President Donald Trump. The suspension, reportedly directed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, encompasses nearly all aid-related programs, with limited exceptions, sparking significant controversy and concern.

On January 24, Politico reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued instructions to US diplomatic and consular posts to halt work on almost all existing foreign assistance awards for 90 days. According to the report, Rubio’s directive comes in response to President Trump’s order for a comprehensive review of foreign aid expenditures to assess their alignment with US policy goals and efficiency.

The freeze includes both development assistance and military aid, a significant portion of which has been directed toward Ukraine since the escalation of conflict with Russia in February 2022. Politico cited multiple current and former officials who confirmed that no further action would be taken to disburse funds for previously approved programs during this period.

A memo from the State Department, also reviewed by the BBC, revealed that the aid suspension extends to nearly all foreign assistance programs funded through the State Department and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Exceptions were reportedly granted only for military aid to Israel and Egypt, leaving other critical programs-including those in Ukraine-without a clear path forward.

The memo’s contents suggest that the freeze affects a wide range of initiatives, from development and humanitarian assistance to health and education programs. A USAID official disclosed to Reuters that the suspension includes vital support........

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