The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated the halt of supplies for medicines for deadly diseases such as HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as essential medical supplies for newborns. According to a document obtained by Reuters, the process of halting these supplies has begun in poor countries supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) across the world.
From Tuesday (January 28), contractors and partner organizations working with USAID have started receiving instructions to cease their operations immediately. Sources reveal that since President Trump’s assumption of office on January 20, all development assistance and funding have been temporarily suspended, with ongoing operations being re-evaluated.
A document detailing the cessation of medical supplies for diseases like HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, contraceptives, and maternal and child health services has been sent to a large U.S. consulting firm, Chemonics. The firm collaborates with USAID to supply medicines for various diseases worldwide. The document was confirmed by a source within USAID and a former official from the organization, who shared this information with Reuters.
Former USAID Official Criticizes Halt in Medical Supplies
Atul Gawande, a former official who recently stepped down from USAID earlier this month, has called the decision a “disaster.” He pointed out that the medicines provided by charitable organizations have helped save the lives of 20 million people living with HIV, and now that supply will be cut off.
Chemonics and USAID did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment on the matter.
Gawande further warned that disruptions in the treatment of diseases would put patients at risk of becoming severely ill, and in the case of HIV, it could lead to the increased spread of the virus to others.
Impact of Halt on Global HIV and Orphaned Children Aid
Gawande also shared that other partner organizations have received similar notices, meaning they will be unable to distribute the medicines they have on hand or continue running USAID-funded clinics.
He further stated that the halt in supplies is affecting organizations working with 6.5 million orphaned and HIV-affected children in 23 countries.
On January 20, the day President Trump assumed office, he issued an order to suspend foreign development assistance for 90 days. Additionally, nearly 60 senior staff members of USAID have been sent on leave.