Chuck Schumer (left), Donald Trump (File – agencies)
US President Donald Trump has unilaterally cancelled nearly $5 billion in foreign aid, drawing sharp criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers.Republican Senator Susan Collins called the move “unlawful”, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned it could lead to a government shutdown this fall.The rescinded funds, valued at $4.9 billion, were meant for international development and peacekeeping programs, including those historically managed by USAID, which has seen major funding and operational cuts recently.A senior Republican Senator Susan Collins, who oversees spending legislation as chair of the Senate appropriations committee said, “the President’s rescission of congressionally approved foreign aid is illegal.” She urged a return to the regular budget process.“Instead of this attempt to undermine the law, the appropriate way is to identify ways to reduce excessive spending through the bipartisan, annual appropriations process,” she said in a statement, as quoted by news agency Reuters. Senate Schumer said Trump is aiming to force a government shutdown at the end of September by indicating that he is willing to ignore any spending laws passed by Congress. In response he threatened a standoff in the upcoming federal funding negotiations, signalling that Democrats may be willing to force a shutdown if the rescission is not reversed. “Republicans don’t have to be a rubber stamp for this carnage,” Schumer said in a statement, the agency quoted.The Trump administration is using a mechanism known as a “pocket rescission”, which allows suspension of funds for up to 45 days without Congress’s approval. If not acted upon by September 30, the funds will permanently expire.This move follows the Rescissions Act of 2025, which Trump signed in July, cutting billions from foreign assistance and public broadcasting. Health experts and aid groups have warned the cuts could have dire humanitarian consequences globally.The decision is likely to deepen political tensions as Congress returns in September for budget talks ahead of the fiscal deadline.
