Tue Jan 28 18:24:07 IST 2025: ## Trump Administration Halts Life-Saving Drug Supplies to Poor Countries

**London, January 28, 2025** – The Trump administration has abruptly halted the supply of crucial medicines and medical supplies to impoverished nations, sparking widespread condemnation. A memo obtained by Reuters reveals that the administration has ordered a cessation of aid for HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and newborn care, impacting programs supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) worldwide.

Contractors, including major firms like Chemonics, received memos on Tuesday, January 27th, demanding an immediate halt to operations. This action is part of a broader freeze on U.S. foreign aid initiated by the Trump administration upon taking office, pending a review of programs.

Former USAID head of global health, Atul Gawande, described the move as “catastrophic,” highlighting that donated drugs currently sustain the lives of 20 million people living with HIV. The interruption of treatment not only risks increased illness and death but also facilitates the emergence of drug-resistant strains. Gawande further stated that the halt affects millions of vulnerable children.

The decision affects billions of dollars in aid, jeopardizing the world’s largest single donor’s commitment to global health. In 2023, the U.S. disbursed $72 billion in aid, comprising 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the UN in 2024. The administration’s actions have also reportedly placed approximately 60 senior USAID officials on leave. USAID and Chemonics have yet to comment publicly.

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