New York: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a stark warning to the administration of US President Donald Trump regarding the potential "devastating" effects of proposed cuts to humanitarian aid budgets. Guterres described these reductions as "contrary to Washington's interests," urging a reconsideration of the decision.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Guterres emphasized that the reduction in US humanitarian aid is not aligned with American interests globally. He expressed hope that these decisions might be reviewed following further study. The funding provided by the United States plays a crucial role in supporting those affected by wars, famines, and disasters in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. This aid is essential for providing basic health care, shelter, water, food, and education.

The Trump administration recently announced a significant cut in US international aid, notably canceling 92% of funding for development and foreign aid programs managed by the US Agency for International Development. The administration claims that these cuts will save taxpayers approximately $60 billion. On his first day in office, President Trump signed an executive order to freeze all foreign aid for 90 days, allowing time to review foreign spending, even as the United States remains the largest donor of humanitarian and development aid globally.