The Trump administration on Monday asked the US Supreme Court for an emergency order to keep nearly USD 5 billion in foreign aid frozen. The dispute centers on funds that Congress approved, but Donald Trump announced last month he would not spend.
The first paragraph again: The Trump administration on Monday asked the US Supreme Court for an emergency order to keep nearly USD 5 billion in foreign aid frozen.
Trump used what is known as a “pocket rescission.” This means a President can send a request to Congress near the end of a budget year, asking not to spend the approved money. If Congress does not act within 45 days, the funds remain unspent.
US District Judge Amir Ali ruled last week that the administration’s move was likely illegal. He stressed that only congressional action, not a President’s message, can cancel previously approved funds.
In response, Trump told House Speaker Mike Johnson he would not spend the USD 4.9 billion set aside for foreign aid. His administration quickly appealed the ruling and asked the Supreme Court to intervene.
Nonprofit groups warned that the funding freeze has already disrupted key humanitarian programs. They argued that blocking aid threatens lives by halting critical projects around the world.
