Dismantling of USAID and Its Implications

The dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), a $40 billion agency, signifies a major shift in how the Trump administration approaches foreign aid. Critics view this move as an effort to consolidate power, aligning with the administration's belief in a zero-sum approach where the U.S. should leverage its strength directly rather than through soft power initiatives. While some suggest USAID may be folded into the State Department, it remains uncertain whether this closure is permanent, as legal challenges and congressional approval are required for such significant changes. The disruption of USAID not only affects future funding but also threatens the operational capacity of the NGOs relying on this aid, potentially leading to dire consequences for overseas assistance programs.