Fri May 02 19:45:00 UTC 2025: ## Trump Proposes $3.2 Billion for World Bank’s Poverty Fund Amidst Broad Foreign Aid Cuts
**Washington, D.C. – May 3, 2025** – President Donald Trump has unexpectedly proposed a $3.2 billion contribution to the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) over three years, a move lauded by international finance experts. This contribution, earmarked for low- or zero-interest loans to impoverished nations, comes as a surprise following concerns that the Trump administration might forgo any contribution altogether. While lower than the $4 billion pledged by the previous administration, the proposal is still considered significant in helping the World Bank reach its $100 billion fundraising goal for IDA.
The announcement, however, is overshadowed by drastic cuts to overall foreign aid. Trump’s budget proposal includes a $49 billion reduction in foreign assistance, including a $555 million cut to the African Development Bank and Fund, citing a lack of alignment with administration priorities. The White House justified the IDA contribution by stating it fulfills the President’s commitment to ensure a return on investment for American taxpayers. The final decision on the funding rests with the U.S. Congress. Experts, while welcoming the IDA contribution, note that it represents a rare bright spot in a budget characterized by sweeping cuts to U.S. foreign aid programs.
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