An internal memo reveals a proposed 50% reduction in the State Department's budget for the next fiscal year. This includes eliminating nearly all funding for international organizations (like the UN and NATO), ending support for international peacekeeping operations, and curtailing all educational and cultural exchanges (such as the Fulbright Program).
The plan proposes cutting humanitarian assistance and global health programs by over 50%, despite pledges from Secretary of State Marco Rubio to preserve lifesaving aid. Specific cuts would affect programs tackling neglected tropical diseases, providing vaccines to children in poor countries, and preserving maternal and child health. The only preserved global health programs would be HIV treatments (PEPFAR), interventions for diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, global health security initiatives, and a portion of the Global Fund.
Democrats have strongly criticized the proposed cuts, expressing concerns about national security and the potential for other countries to fill the void left by reduced U.S. involvement. While Congress ultimately controls the purse strings, the administration's intention is to pressure lawmakers into formalizing downsizing efforts.
Additional cuts include a pay and hiring freeze, reclamation of unspent funds from the previous fiscal year, and the creation of a new "America First Opportunities Fund." A key narcotics control program would also face a one-year freeze due to existing unspent funds.
The memo's status is unclear – it is not confirmed whether Secretary Rubio endorsed the cuts, and Congress's response is yet to be determined. The State Department has not yet publicly detailed its complete downsizing plans.