In a major shift for American foreign policy, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a directive ordering the United States to withdraw from 66 different international bodies. This memorandum, signed on January 8 in Washington, targets 31 entities connected to the United Nations and 35 organizations outside of the U.N. system, according to official information released by the White House.
Focus on U.S. Interests and Efficiency
The White House clarified that the decision, made public on January 8, is aimed at international groups that the administration believes no longer serve the national interests of the United States. A primary goal of the move is to terminate the use of U.S. taxpayer funds for organizations accused of lacking efficiency or promoting “globalist agendas.” As reported by CNN, the statement from the White House noted that this withdrawal is in line with Trump’s broader strategy to cease support for any international body viewed as being at odds with American priorities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio Defends the Move
Providing further context on the social media platform “X”, Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed the administration’s choice. Rubio stated that the order fulfills a significant campaign promise to end the funding of international entities he characterized as “hostile” or “wasteful.” He further declared that the Trump administration would consistently put “America and Americans first,” while indicating that several other international organizations are currently being reviewed for possible future action.
Broader Strategy of Disengagement
This latest memorandum is part of a continuing effort by the Trump administration to decrease Washington’s financial obligations to the United Nations. This strategy has previously seen the United States end its involvement in the Human Rights Council and maintain a suspension of financial support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Additionally, the administration has already moved to leave UNESCO, announced its departure from the World Health Organization, and expressed its clear intent to exit the Paris Climate Agreement.
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