• 21/02/2025 19:03

US to freeze aid to Ukraine: State Department suspends most international grants

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued an order that temporarily suspends funding for virtually all international aid programs, including military support for Ukraine. This order came as a surprise even to employees. According to Politico, the State Department is introducing a 90-day pause to review existing grants and initiatives. At the same time, funding for Israel and Egypt will remain unchanged, as will some humanitarian programs, such as emergency food aid, writes IZ.

The new restrictions apply to all existing contracts, except for those expressly specified in the exceptions. The document emphasizes that any decisions on the restoration or termination of funding will be made after the audit is completed. Despite this, uncertainty has already arisen among officials and international partners. Ukraine, which relies on continued military support, could find itself in a difficult position due to the suspension of funding amid the ongoing war with Russia.

According to sources in the State Department, Rubio's decree could cause legal disputes, as freezing funds for programs that have already been approved may violate the terms of previously concluded contracts. Experts predict that this could create significant problems for US partner programs in the fields of defense, health care, and humanitarian assistance.

The suspension of funding has drawn criticism from representatives of civil society organizations and officials involved in the implementation of international programs. Of particular concern is the impact of this decision on global initiatives, such as the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic. All programs that have been restricted are currently awaiting a report and further recommendations from the State Department.

We recall that we previously wrote that the current US and European leadership are discussing a peacekeeping mission for Ukraine.

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