Trump Bypasses Congress to Cancel Nearly $5 Billion in Foreign Aid

In a surprising move that has ignited a political firestorm, President Donald Trump announced on August 29, 2025, that his administration would cancel nearly $5 billion in foreign aid previously approved by Congress. This decision, executed through a rarely used tactic known as a pocket rescission, has sparked heated debate about constitutional powers, budget priorities, and the potential impact on U.S. global relations.

   What Happened?

President Trump declared that his administration would freeze $4.9 billion in foreign assistance programs, effectively nullifying funds intended for development projects, peacekeeping operations, and contributions to international organizations.

The tactic he employed — the pocket rescission — allows a president to withhold funds so close to the end of the fiscal year (September 30) that Congress cannot act before the money expires. Critics argue that this undermines the constitutional authority of Congress, which holds the "power of the purse."

  Programs Affected :

According to administration officials, the frozen funds include allocations for:

• USAID Development Assistance – Programs aimed at global economic development and poverty reduction.

• Democracy Fund Initiatives – Projects promoting democratic governance and human rights abroad.

• United Nations Contributions – Funding for U.N. agencies involved in peacekeeping, health, and humanitarian efforts.

• International Peacekeeping Operations – Support for missions in conflict zones, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

The administration has not specified which countries or programs will face immediate shortfalls, but the freeze threatens critical initiatives in public health, education, and crisis response worldwide.

 Why Did Trump Do This?

The White House claims the move is part of a broader effort to reassess U.S. foreign spending and prioritize domestic needs.

“American taxpayers deserve to know their money is spent wisely,” Trump said during the announcement. “We will no longer fund programs that don’t advance U.S. interests.”

Supporters argue that the U.S. spends too much on foreign aid, often with little measurable return. They believe this decision reflects a commitment to ‘America First’ policies, redirecting funds to domestic infrastructure, border security, and debt reduction.

Legal and Political Backlash :

The decision has triggered immediate pushback from both parties:

• Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, called the move “unlawful” and warned it sets a dangerous precedent.

• Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-New York) said the decision is “an unconstitutional power grab” and threatened a government shutdown if the funds are not restored.

• The Government Accountability Office (GAO) previously declared that similar tactics undermine Congress’s authority, emphasizi
  ng that federal spending is a legislative function, not an executive one.

The controversy now sets the stage for a constitutional showdown that could influence future presidential powers.

Historical Context :

While rare, pocket rescissions have been attempted before. Presidents from Jimmy Carter to Ronald Reagan explored similar maneuvers, though most were blocked or reversed after congressional or legal challenges.

The difference now lies in the scale. Trump’s $5 billion cancellation is one of the largest unilateral spending cuts in U.S. history — and it comes amid heightened political polarization and budget negotiations ahead of a September 30 deadline to avoid a government shutdown.

Global Implications :

Critics warn that cutting foreign aid may:

1. Weaken U.S. Diplomatic Influence – Reduced funding for international programs could limit American leverage in global crises.

2. Disrupt Humanitarian Efforts – Initiatives fighting famine, disease, and poverty may lose vital support.

3. Hurt Peacekeeping and Security Efforts – U.N.-backed missions in volatile regions may face operational challenges, potentially increasing instability.

Many aid organizations and foreign policy experts stress that foreign assistance often advances U.S. strategic interests, including national security, trade, and global stability.

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• Conclusion :

President Trump’s decision to bypass Congress and cancel nearly $5 billion in foreign aid represents more than a budgetary dispute — it’s a constitutional battle with far-reaching implications. As lawmakers debate its legality and aid groups warn of global repercussions, the move may shape how future presidents wield spending power and redefine America’s role on the world stage.