US Freezes Most Foreign Aid, Sparing Israel, Egypt, and Turkey

The United States has frozen nearly all foreign aid, including aid to Ukraine, under a new directive from the State Department. Israel, Egypt, and Turkey are reportedly exempt from the freeze, potentially for certain types of aid.

Issued shortly after President Trump's inauguration, the directive from Secretary of State emphasizes an "America First" approach to foreign aid. It requires review and approval of all new and extended aid packages before any funds are obligated.

This freeze impacts various forms of assistance, including development and military aid. Ukraine, a major recipient of US military aid under the previous Biden administration, will be significantly affected.