A 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in over 1,700 deaths, a number expected to climb. While multiple nations, including China, India, Russia, and Thailand, have deployed rescue teams and substantial aid, the United States’ response has been comparatively delayed and limited, despite a pledged $2 million in aid. China, in particular, has taken a prominent role, rescuing several individuals from the rubble and providing significant material support. The delayed US response has drawn criticism, especially considering recent cuts to foreign aid.
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Elon Musk’s claim that no one has died due to U.S. foreign aid cuts is demonstrably false. In South Sudan, the cessation of aid, orchestrated in part by Musk and President Trump, directly resulted in the deaths of several children, including Peter Donde, who died from an opportunistic infection due to lack of HIV medication, and Achol Deng, who died after losing access to her case worker and medicine. These deaths are not isolated incidents, and health workers predict a significant rise in mortality as food and medicine supplies dwindle. The consequences extend beyond immediate deaths, impacting anti-terrorism efforts and disease surveillance, ultimately harming U.S. interests.
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Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the completion of a six-week review of USAID programs, resulting in the elimination of approximately 82% of its initiatives. This action, directed by President Trump’s executive order, transferred the remaining 18% of programs to the State Department for more effective administration. The administration claims these eliminated programs, totaling tens of billions of dollars, did not serve U.S. national interests. This decision, however, faces legal challenges from those who argue the process was illegal and lacked transparency, citing the termination of even life-saving programs.
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Beginning Friday, thousands of USAID’s direct-hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave, excluding those in mission-critical roles, leadership, or designated programs. This action, driven by the Trump administration’s claims of agency waste and inefficiency, follows a freeze on foreign assistance and has sparked protests from staff and Democratic lawmakers citing potential harm to national security and vulnerable populations. The move is part of broader cuts orchestrated in coordination with Elon Musk, and while a complete closure of USAID requires Congressional action, the ongoing upheaval raises serious concerns about the future of global humanitarian aid. Affected employees were notified by Thursday afternoon.
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The abrupt pause in US foreign aid under the current administration is causing a devastating ripple effect across the globe, leading to the closure of vital health programs and jeopardizing the lives of millions. Children’s hospitals are running out of essential supplies, leaving vulnerable patients at risk of death. The sheer scale of this crisis is staggering, and the long-term consequences extend far beyond immediate suffering.
This action isn’t merely a budgetary cut; it’s a strategic dismantling of American influence on the world stage. The belief that foreign aid is simply wasted money is a gross mischaracterization of its role. Foreign aid isn’t just charity; it’s a crucial tool for building alliances and securing geopolitical advantage.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood