State Department Issues Immediate Pause on Foreign Aid: What You Need to Know

Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently issued new guidance halting spending on most existing foreign aid grants for a 90-day period. This order, which surprised many State Department officials, seems to encompass funding for military assistance to Ukraine.

Understanding the New Guidance

Rubio’s directive, sent to all diplomatic and consular posts, mandates department staff to issue “stop-work orders” on nearly all “existing foreign assistance awards.” This directive takes effect immediately.

The scope of this order appears to extend beyond President Donald Trump’s recent executive order, which instructed the department to pause foreign aid grants for 90 days pending review by the secretary. The potential impact on already appropriated funds or aid to Ukraine was not clear from the president’s order.

What Does the Pause Mean?

This new guidance halts any further actions to disburse aid funding for programs already approved by the U.S. government. While the document allows for some exceptions, it has left many officials within the department stunned by its broad implications.

Implications and Exceptions

Although the directive provides exceptions for foreign military financing for Egypt and Israel, as well as emergency food assistance and “legitimate expenses incurred prior to the date of this” guidance, it emphasizes the need for decisions to align with the terms of the relevant award.

The pause seems to affect aid to key allies like Ukraine, Jordan, and Taiwan, raising concerns among officials. The potential for civil liability due to unfulfilled contracts is also highlighted.

Next Steps and Recommendations

Following the review period, decisions on whether to continue, modify, or terminate programs will be made. A report is expected within 85 days of the guidance, accompanied by recommendations from Rubio to Trump regarding which foreign assistance programs to sustain and which to terminate.

The omission of Ukraine from this guidance is particularly concerning to American officials seeking to support the country against Russian aggression.

Conclusion

This pause on foreign aid reflects a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy, with a focus on reevaluating assistance programs. Stay informed as developments unfold in the coming months.