Washington, D.C.| U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized that American foreign aid should be strategically aligned with national interests rather than functioning as mere charity.
Speaking on the broader goals of the Trump administration’s foreign policy, Rubio assured that while international assistance will continue, it will be structured in a way that maximizes benefits for the United States.
Rubio highlighted inefficiencies in the current foreign aid system, citing concerns over excessive bureaucratic costs. According to his assessment, only a fraction of funds allocated through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) directly benefits recipients.
“In some cases, only 10–12–13% of USAID funds, or perhaps even less, actually reach the people in need,” he stated. The majority, he explained, is consumed by administrative expenses, logistical overhead, and intermediary organizations.
The remarks reflect the Trump administration’s ongoing effort to reassess and restructure foreign aid, ensuring that it serves diplomatic, economic, and security objectives.
While Rubio did not indicate a complete cessation of international assistance, his comments suggest a push for reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and a greater return on investment for American taxpayers.
This stance aligns with broader Republican concerns about wasteful spending and calls for a results-driven approach to foreign assistance.
Critics, however, argue that reducing aid without proper alternatives could weaken U.S. global influence and harm vulnerable communities.
As discussions on foreign aid policy continue, the administration is expected to propose measures that prioritize direct impact while minimizing inefficiencies.
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