How does President Trump’s executive order on suspension of foreign assistance impact Ethiopia?
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed 26 executive orders, as well as 12 memorandums and four proclamations, totaling 42 presidential actions on his first day in office.
Suspending U.S. foreign assistance programs for 90 days is among the 26 executive orders President Donald Trump signed on January 20, 2025. This particular order mandates a comprehensive review of all foreign assistance programs to ensure alignment with his administration’s policy objectives.
The suspension affects a wide range of aid programs globally, including those directed toward humanitarian efforts, healthcare, economic development, and governance support. Ethiopia and other African nations receiving significant U.S. aid are likely to experience immediate repercussions if the review leads to reductions or reallocation of funds.
Ethiopia has been recipient of significant foreign assistance from the United States for the past decades. Currently, the U.S. provides support to Ethiopia in various sectors, in particular humanitarian aid, health programs, economic development, and democracy and governance.
The suspension may likely have immediate and profound impact on Ethiopia, given the scale and scope of ongoing aid programs, especially with regard to humanitarian aid.
Ethiopia is heavily reliant on U.S. humanitarian aid to address crises like food insecurity, displacement, and natural disasters. A suspension could delay the delivery of critical resources, including food, shelter, and medical supplies, exacerbating conditions for millions in regions like Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia. The U.S. contributed over $80 million in 2024 for humanitarian assistance alone. A disruption will hinder emergency relief efforts, especially for refugees and internally displaced persons.
The suspension does not necessarily imply a permanent discontinuation but allows for a review to ensure alignment with U.S. policy priorities. However, if Ethiopia is deemed to be non-compliant with U.S. interests or values during the review, some aid programs could be scaled back or terminated.
