UN Secretary-General Warns of Severe Global Impact from US Aid Cuts
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning that the cessation of financial resources provided by the United States for humanitarian and development purposes will severely affect global health, security, and prosperity.
Speaking to reporters in New York, Guterres highlighted that this decision would undermine numerous critical aid programs. The lack of financial resources would damage essential humanitarian efforts, development initiatives, counter-terrorism efforts, and measures to combat drug trafficking.
**Crisis Intensifies Globally**
Guterres stated that over 100 million people globally benefit from US aid every year. However, he emphasized that these funds are being halted at a time when global crises are intensifying, putting millions at risk of hunger, disease, and displacement. He cautioned that this decision would disproportionately impact vulnerable and insecure populations worldwide.
**Millions of Lives at Risk**
The cut in US aid would severely affect over 9 million people in Afghanistan, who would lose access to critical health and protection services. Hundreds of mobile medical teams and other vital programs would be rendered inactive. Similarly, 2.5 million people in northeastern Syria would no longer receive humanitarian assistance. In Ukraine, the effects are already being felt, with the suspension of cash aid to 1 million people. South Sudanese refugees have also been impacted, with ongoing relief programs for Sudanese refugees disrupted.
**Drug Control Efforts in Jeopardy**
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported that several drug control operations will be halted due to the lack of aid funding, including efforts to address the fentanyl crisis and combat human trafficking.
**Medical Programs to Face Funding Cuts**
Guterres further stated that many vital health programs aimed at tackling HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and cholera would also face a cessation of financial support.
**Call for Reconsideration**
The Secretary-General urged the US government to reconsider its decision, warning that reduced aid from the US would have long-term consequences. He stressed that the move would not only harm those in need but could also jeopardize global stability.
