Trump's Foreign Aid Cuts Could Lead to 14 Million Deaths, Study Warns

Massive cuts to U.S. foreign aid under President Trump could cause over 14 million preventable deaths by 2030, including 4.5 million children, according to a Lancet study. Researchers say the 83% funding reduction—announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio—risks reversing two decades of global health progress.

Co-authored by Davide Rasella, the report compares the impact to a pandemic or armed conflict, warning that low- and middle-income nations face catastrophic consequences. USAID, once active in 60+ countries and credited with saving 90 million lives since 2001, has seen over 80% of its programs cut.

Humanitarian groups and the UN have condemned the move, noting severe consequences, including famine in Kenyan refugee camps. The U.S., the world’s largest aid donor, is skipping a major UN-led aid summit in Seville.

01-07-2025