- Chief Justice John Roberts issued a temporary stay on releasing frozen foreign aid funds.
- The Trump administration has canceled over 90% of USAID contracts.
- Aid groups argue the freeze violates federal law and jeopardizes relief efforts.
The Supreme Court‘s decision temporarily supports Trump’s policy of withholding foreign aid, allowing the administration time to present its case for keeping the freeze.
Aid organizations argue that this move disrupts humanitarian relief, affecting food, medical supplies, and essential services in over 130 countries.
Trump’s Foreign Aid Freeze Faces Legal Battle in Supreme Court
The Trump administration has significantly reduced USAID’s reach, terminating nearly 10,000 aid contracts globally. Many of these cuts target diversity and inclusion programs, which Trump has actively sought to dismantle since taking office. His administration insists it has the right to review and suspend agreements to align them with policy goals.
Judge Amir Ali had previously ordered the immediate release of frozen aid payments, but the administration continued to delay compliance. With Roberts’ stay in place, the Supreme Court will now determine whether the Trump administration overstepped its legal authority in halting funds that Congress had already approved.
For many aid groups, the funding freeze threatens survival. Some have warned they will shut down within days without payments. This disruption has already affected crucial humanitarian operations, leaving many communities without essential resources.
The legal battle also highlights the broader debate over executive power and the role of independent agencies like USAID. The Supreme Court’s final decision could set a precedent on how much authority a president has to unilaterally control foreign aid spending.
The Supreme Court’s ruling will shape the future of US foreign aid policy and determine the limits of presidential authority over funding decisions. If the freeze is upheld, humanitarian organizations and global relief efforts will face severe consequences.
“The measure of a country’s greatness is its ability to retain compassion in times of crisis.” – Thurgood Marshall
