Ukraine’s parliamentary committee announced on Jan. 29 that it has consulted with their European counterparts regarding a temporary pause of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funding under President Donald Trump’s executive order suspending foreign aid programs for 90 days. This suspension aims to align assistance with “American interests” and “American values.” The committee stated the pause could last up to six months, impacting various sectors in Ukraine.
Ukrainian organizations affected by the funding halt provide essential humanitarian services such as counseling, cultural events, and basic needs support, particularly for vulnerable populations. Additionally, agricultural projects, reconstruction efforts, and energy infrastructure repairs have been delayed due to the decision. Several independent Ukrainian media also face critical funding shortages.
The committee emphasized that while an audit is ongoing, Ukraine must act promptly to avoid destabilizing key processes and future actions in this regard. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he had ordered a report on U.S.-funded projects affected by the freeze. However, the committee stressed that USAID’s assistance remains vital for Ukraine’s democratic development and stability in the current geopolitical context.
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-lawmakers-seek-to-temporarily-replace-usaid-with-european-funding