Severing of aid is moral, geopolitical mistake

On March 10, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that “based on individual review,” 83% of 13,000 contracts under USAID (Agency for International Development) would be cut (apnews.com). It seems highly unlikely that these contracts were individually reviewed, and I am deeply concerned about the devastating impact these arbitrary cuts will have on vulnerable populations worldwide.

Save the Children estimates that between eight to 12 million people they support will be affected by these cuts, at a time when approximately one in every 11 children globally requires humanitarian assistance.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 92 health clinics serving over 200,000 people will close, per Save the Children. Plus, the abrupt termination of funding has left over 4.4 million pounds of food aid stranded in warehouses across multiple countries, according to the group.

These cuts are not only cruel but also incredibly short-sighted. By withdrawing support from developing countries, we are forfeiting valuable goodwill and influence. This void will likely be filled by other nations, such as China, potentially reshaping global alliances and undermining America's long-term strategic interests.

America has long been a global leader in humanitarian aid and development. To abruptly sever these lifelines is both a moral and geopolitical mistake. I urge every voter to contact their representatives and demand that the contracts be reconsidered.

JEAN GERTH ANDERSON

Sagle