US Supreme Court Allows Trump's Massive Foreign Aid Freeze
The US Supreme Court on Friday allowed the Trump administration to continue its freeze of over $4 billion in foreign aid, dealing a significant blow to humanitarian efforts around the world. The court's decision marked a major victory for President Donald Trump, who has long sought to drastically scale back US foreign aid.
According to the Supreme Court's order, the "asserted harms" to Trump's conduct of foreign affairs "appear to outweigh the potential harm" faced by potential recipients of the foreign aid. This ruling was made despite the fact that the aid had been approved by the US Congress.
The decision is seen as a significant setback for humanitarian organizations and countries reliant on US aid, which has already begun to feel the effects of the freeze. "This is a devastating blow to those who rely on our assistance," said a spokesperson for the International Rescue Committee. "We urge the administration to reconsider its decision and release the aid to those who need it most."
The Trump administration's move to freeze foreign aid was met with widespread criticism from lawmakers, humanitarian organizations, and international leaders. The US Department of Justice, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, a close ally of President Trump, argued that the freeze was necessary to protect national security interests.
However, critics argue that the decision is driven by politics rather than a genuine concern for national security. "This is a clear example of the administration's willingness to use foreign aid as a bargaining chip in its domestic policy battles," said Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
The Supreme Court's decision does not necessarily mean that the freeze will be permanent, as the court noted that it was only granting "interim relief" and that the issue would ultimately need to be decided by a lower court. However, for now, the aid remains frozen, leaving millions of people around the world without access to critical assistance.
The global community has been watching this development closely, with many countries expressing concern about the implications of the US Supreme Court's decision. "We are disappointed but not surprised by this decision," said a spokesperson for the European Union. "We will continue to work with our international partners to find alternative solutions to support those in need."
As the situation continues to unfold, humanitarian organizations and lawmakers are urging the administration to reconsider its decision and release the aid. The next developments in this case are expected to come from the lower courts, where the issue is currently being litigated.
Background:
The Trump administration's move to freeze foreign aid was first announced in February 2025, sparking widespread criticism from lawmakers and humanitarian organizations. The freeze has already had significant consequences, with many countries and organizations reporting a decline in aid receipts.
Additional Perspectives:
"This decision is a stark reminder of the dangers of politicizing foreign aid," said a spokesperson for Oxfam International. "We urge the administration to reconsider its decision and prioritize the needs of those who rely on our assistance."
"The Supreme Court's decision is a setback for humanitarian efforts around the world, but it also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in US foreign aid policy," said a spokesperson for the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Current Status:
The US Supreme Court's decision allows the Trump administration to continue its freeze of over $4 billion in foreign aid. The issue is currently being litigated in lower courts, where it is expected to be decided in the coming months. Humanitarian organizations and lawmakers are urging the administration to reconsider its decision and release the aid.
*Reporting by Dw.*
