Related videos:
The Supreme Court of the United States rejected on Wednesday the Trump administration's request to block a court order requiring the payment of nearly $2 billion in previously frozen funds from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
The ruling represents a setback for President Donald Trump, who had ordered the suspension of these payments as part of his policy to reduce foreign aid. The Court determined that the government must comply with the order of a lower court, although the case has been sent back to that court to clarify details regarding the payment schedule.
The court's decision establishes that the deadline of February 26 imposed by a district court had already expired, and the administration must determine how to proceed with the outstanding payments. In response, District Judge Amir Ali has scheduled a hearing for next Thursday, where both parties must present a feasible timeline for making the reimbursements.
Despite the decision, the ruling does not immediately require the Trump administration to release the funds, which could lead to further delays in the payment of international aid contracts.
The ruling sparked a heated debate within the Supreme Court. Four justices voted against the decision, arguing that a single district judge should not have the authority to compel the federal government to disburse $2 billion in taxpayer funds.
Since taking office for his second term, Trump has driven a massive cut in foreign aid spending, ensuring that he aims to align international policy with national interests.
In February, the president ordered a review of USAID, transferring its control to the Department of State and appointing Secretary of State Marco Rubio as the acting director of the agency.
In the same month, Trump defended his stance in an interview with FOX News, stating that the United States has been cheated for too long and that reducing foreign aid is essential to curb the rise in national debt.
As part of this policy, USAID's website and social media accounts were deactivated, and its headquarters in Washington was sealed off with yellow tape.
On the other hand, Congress and human rights organizations have criticized Trump's decision to dismiss USAID officials and dismantle the payment systems that ensured the transfer of funds to aid groups.
What comes next?
Although the Supreme Court's decision represents a temporary setback for Trump, the government can still attempt to delay the payments, arguing that there is a lack of logistical feasibility to disburse the funds immediately.
For their part, the affected aid groups have warned that the administration "never took steps to comply" with the court order and that the delays could affect essential humanitarian programs abroad.
The case remains in the hands of the district court, which will need to determine the exact deadline for the Trump administration to make the payments. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court ruling makes it clear that the president does not have absolute authority to unilaterally block funds approved for international cooperation programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Supreme Court Ruling and the Situation of USAID under the Trump Administration
What did the Supreme Court decide regarding USAID funds?
The Supreme Court rejected the Trump administration's request to block a court order requiring the payment of nearly 2 billion dollars in frozen USAID funds. This decision represents a setback for President Trump, who had ordered the suspension of these payments as part of his foreign aid reduction policy. However, the ruling does not immediately compel the release of the funds, allowing for potential delays in payment.
Why did the Trump administration freeze USAID funds?
The Trump administration froze USAID funds as part of its policy to reduce foreign aid spending and align international policy with the national interests of the United States. Trump argued that foreign aid contributed to the increase in national debt and sought to reassess programs to ensure their consistency with his administration's foreign policy.
What is the impact of USAID's restructuring on media and NGOs in Cuba?
The restructuring and freezing of USAID funds by the Trump administration jeopardizes the continuity of essential programs for independent media and NGOs in Cuba. These organizations relied on USAID funding to promote democracy and human rights on the island, and now they face uncertainties regarding their future financing.
What global consequences could the suspension of foreign aid from USAID have?
The suspension of foreign aid from USAID could empower authoritarian regimes by reducing support for democratic governments and human rights organizations. Experts warn that this measure could weaken humanitarian efforts in crisis-affected countries and allow powers like China and Russia to expand their influence in vulnerable regions, filling the void left by the United States.
Filed under: