Trump Administration Halts Global Supply of Lifesaving HIV, Malaria, and Tuberculosis Drugs

The Trump administration has ordered an immediate halt to the supply of critical medicines and medical supplies for HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and newborn care in countries supported by USAID, according to a memo reviewed by Reuters.

On Tuesday, USAID contractors and partners began receiving directives to stop work immediately, as part of a broader freeze on U.S. aid and funding while the administration conducts a review of foreign assistance programs. Among those affected is Chemonics, a major consulting firm that works with USAID to supply medications and health resources worldwide.

“This is catastrophic,” said Atul Gawande, former head of global health at USAID, who left the agency earlier this month. “Donated drug supplies keeping 20 million people living with HIV alive. That stops today.”

Experts warn that disruptions in treatment could lead to severe health consequences, including increased illness, higher transmission rates of HIV, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. The freeze also affects organizations supporting 6.5 million orphans and vulnerable children living with HIV in 23 countries.

The funding pause follows Trump’s executive order on January 20, which implemented a 90-day suspension of foreign development assistance. The administration has also placed approximately 60 senior USAID officials on leave, further complicating global relief efforts.

In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. disbursed $72 billion in foreign assistance, accounting for 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the United Nations in 2024. The administration’s decision now threatens billions of dollars in lifesaving aid from the world’s largest donor, raising urgent concerns among global health organizations and humanitarian groups.