Thu Jul 17 07:11:04 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article written from an Indian perspective:

**Summary:**

The U.S. Senate has approved President Trump’s plan to cut $9 billion in previously approved spending, primarily targeting foreign aid programs and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The cuts represent a small portion of the larger federal budget and the total funds Trump has frozen. Republicans largely supported the measure, while Democrats criticized it as an abdication of Congressional authority and a fiscally irresponsible move, especially after recent tax cuts. Some Republicans expressed concern over the cuts to global health programs. The bill now requires another House vote before potentially becoming law. The deadline for passage is the end of the day, July 17, 2025.

**News Article:**

**From Washington to Washington: US Senate Greenlights Trump’s Foreign Aid Cuts, Sparks Controversy**

**WASHINGTON, July 17, 2025 (The Hindu) -** The United States Senate today approved a controversial plan by President Donald Trump to slash $9 billion from previously approved spending, raising concerns about the impact on global development efforts and the future of public broadcasting. The move, passed by a narrow 51-48 margin, reflects the strong grip Trump maintains on the Republican party and raises questions about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.

The cuts target programs aimed at assisting foreign countries grappling with disease, war, and natural disasters, as well as eliminating funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). This decision has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats, who decry the cuts as short-sighted and detrimental to global health initiatives.

“Today, Senate Republicans turn this chamber into a subservient rubber stamp for the executive, at the behest of Donald Trump,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, highlighting concerns about the erosion of Congressional oversight.

The move is particularly noteworthy considering the already substantial amount of funds being blocked by the Trump administration. Reports indicate that as of mid-June, the U.S. President was holding up $425 billion in previously approved funding, raising questions about budgetary priorities and the direction of U.S. foreign policy.

While Trump and his supporters argue that the cuts are necessary to rein in government spending, critics point to the recent passage of massive tax cuts, which are projected to significantly increase the national debt. They also question the rationale behind cutting aid programs that address critical global challenges.

The decision has also ignited debate within the Republican party, with some senators expressing reservations about the impact on global health programs. As Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski stated, Congress must assert its role in deciding how federal funds were spent.

From an Indian perspective, the cuts to foreign aid raise concerns about potential disruptions to global health initiatives and humanitarian assistance. India, as a growing global power, has increasingly emphasized its role in international development. These cuts could create new challenges and opportunities for India to expand its own development initiatives in affected regions. The implications of this decision are being closely watched in New Delhi, as India continues to navigate the evolving landscape of global politics and development.

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