Key Facts
• A study published in The Lancet on June 30, 2025, highlights USAID’s impact.
• USAID’s aid from 2000 to 2021 reportedly prevented over 91 million deaths globally.
• The Trump administration proposed cutting 83% of foreign aid programs in March 2025.
• Researchers warn this could lead to over 14 million deaths by 2030.
• Approximately 4.5 million of these deaths are expected to be children under five.
• Predicted causes include malaria outbreaks and famine in low- and middle-income countries.
• Researchers equate the impact to large-scale epidemics or armed conflicts.
Summary
A study in The Lancet warns that dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), as proposed by the Trump administration, could result in over 14 million deaths globally by 2030. USAID’s food and medical aid from 2000 to 2021 reportedly saved over 91 million lives. However, the proposed 83% cut in foreign aid programs may lead to severe consequences, including malaria outbreaks and famine, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Researchers emphasize that the potential death toll, including 4.5 million children under five, would rival the devastation caused by major epidemics or armed conflicts.
