The Trump administration is considering slashing nearly half of the State Department’s budget in the upcoming fiscal year, according to a series of internal memos. These proposed reductions could have a far-reaching impact on US foreign relations, aid programs, and its global diplomatic presence.
The cuts, which amount to a reduction of approximately $27 billion, would mark a dramatic decrease in funding for international organizations such as the United Nations and NATO. The plan, still under discussion, could also lead to the closure of several US diplomatic missions worldwide.
Proposal to Cut Funding for International Organizations and Peacekeeping Missions
As part of the proposed budget, the Trump administration is seeking to eliminate almost all funding for international organizations. This includes significant reductions for peacekeeping operations and the cessation of support for educational and cultural exchange programs, such as the Fulbright Exchange Programme.
According to an internal memo reviewed by The Washington Post, the funding for the United Nations and NATO would be cut by 90%, and global health programs could see reductions of up to 55%.
This follows a broader strategy to decrease US involvement in international humanitarian efforts, with cuts targeting everything from international health initiatives to education exchanges.
Humanitarian assistance is also under the knife, with the administration planning to slash such funding by more than half. For instance, the memo outlines reductions to crucial programmes that provide support for refugee resettlement and foreign disaster relief.
This significant retraction in funding signals a shift away from the US’s traditional role as a major global aid provider.
The Implications of Cuts for US Foreign Diplomacy
The proposed cuts are expected to severely affect US diplomatic capacity and international standing. With a 48% reduction in the State Department’s total budget for the 2026 fiscal year, there is concern that the US could lose its influence in key global discussions and initiatives.
The memo, which lays out these plans, also hints at the closure of at least 27 US diplomatic missions, particularly in Africa and Europe.
Additionally, funding for the State Department’s foreign service operations, including the travel budget and diplomatic staff benefits, is set to be heavily reduced. This would put a strain on the department’s ability to carry out its global diplomatic functions.
Critics, including members of Congress and foreign policy experts, have already raised alarms over the potential security risks posed by a reduction in international diplomacy and cooperation.
