The Opinions Musk Said No One Has Died Since Aid Was Cut. That Isn’t True.
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Mar 19, 2025 Nicholas Kristof, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times known for his humanitarian focus, visits South Sudan to witness the devastating effects of cuts to American foreign aid. He shares harrowing stories of children suffering from treatable conditions and discusses the severe health implications stemming from reduced assistance. Kristof emphasizes the ethical obligation of wealthier nations to support vulnerable populations while arguing that cutting foreign aid undermines U.S. global leadership and public health efforts.
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PEPFAR's Impact on HIV/AIDS
- Nicholas Kristof recounts witnessing the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa, where orphaned children lived alone due to the deaths of their parents and caregivers.
- He highlights the success of PEPFAR, initiated by President George W. Bush, which saved millions of lives and caused a decline in coffin-making businesses.
Peter's Story
- In South Sudan, Kristof interviewed Moses, a healthcare worker, who shared the story of Peter, a 10-year-old orphan with HIV.
- Due to aid cuts, Peter's medication stopped, his viral load increased, and he died from pneumonia and sickle cell, a fate shared by other children.
Maternity Clinic's Success
- Kristof visited a remote area in South Sudan where a US-funded maternity clinic drastically reduced childbirth deaths.
- The clinic's success led villagers to express gratitude towards Kristof, mistaking him for its founder, unaware of impending funding cuts.