New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has dealt a significant blow to Bangladesh’s Yunus government by halting US aid to the country. This move was confirmed by USAID in a letter, which references Trump’s recent executive order mandating the immediate cessation or suspension of any USAID/Bangladesh contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other forms of assistance or acquisition.
Since assuming power, Donald Trump has been making a series of bold and decisive moves, one after another. He recently imposed a 90-day ban on financial aid to several countries and international institutions. Just a few days ago, he also cut off aid to Ukraine. Despite the Biden administration’s continued support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia, Trump halted the assistance as soon as he took office.
US pressures Bangladesh for elections
Mohammad Yunus is seen as having close ties to US President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton. In contrast, Donald Trump and his team view Yunus as a Biden-backed leader and are reportedly seeking an alternative to remove his government. The Trump administration has even invited BNP leaders to next month’s National Breakfast Prayer event. Following this meeting, it is believed that the US will exert pressure on Bangladesh to hold elections soon.
Mohammad Yunus has been in power since the departure of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5, 2024. Recently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the government has been asked to conduct an internal review of all foreign aid within 85 days. The world has been in a state of uncertainty since Trump took office, with many surprised by his swift decisions.
Trump’s swift policy reversals
Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 20. Shortly after, he reversed several of Joe Biden’s policies within hours. His administration has signalled a shift in American policy, both domestically and internationally, including measures such as expelling illegal immigrants and revoking citizenship for certain children.
