What is the scale of the US foreign aid cuts announced?

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US Foreign Aid Cuts Total US$4.9 Billion, With Some International Organisations Initially Targeted

The White House has announced the cancellation of US$4.9 billion in congressionally-approved foreign aid, citing a commitment to fiscal responsibility by reducing what it described as "woke, weaponised, and wasteful" government spending. While initially including significant cuts to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO), both entities were subsequently removed from the list of targeted organisations. The United States is a major financial contributor to both bodies; it is the largest contributor to the WTO's budget, providing 11.4% this year, and previously covered 22% of the ILO's regular budget.
Initial Target of US$136 Million in Cuts for WTO and ILO

The White House's initial memo detailing the foreign aid reductions included plans to cut US$107 million from the International Labour Organisation's funding and an additional US$29 million from the World Trade Organisation. These proposed reductions amounted to a total of US$136 million earmarked for these two Geneva-based international organisations.
WTO and ILO Removed from Funding Cut List

Following the initial announcement, both the World Trade Organisation and the International Labour Organisation were removed from the list of entities facing funding cuts. The WTO confirmed its removal from the list, and the ILO also indicated its awareness of its removal from the US administration memo released on August 29. No immediate explanation was provided for these changes.
Significant US Contributions to Targeted Organisations

The United States plays a substantial financial role in both organisations. This year, Washington is the largest contributor to the WTO's budget, allocating 23 million Swiss francs, which represents 11.4% of the total. For the ILO, US backing had historically covered 22% of its regular budget.
Unpaid Contributions for 2024 and 2025

Despite these significant contributions, Washington has not yet paid its assessed contributions for the years 2024 or 2025 to either the WTO or the ILO. Such delays in payments are not uncommon among member countries of these international bodies.

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What is the scale of the US foreign aid cuts announced?

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