The European Union is exploring new initiatives to fill the gap left by the United States’ significant reduction in foreign aid through USAID. Speaking ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs (Development) Council meeting, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged that while the EU cannot fully replace the U.S. role, it will prioritize supporting democracy, media freedom, and human rights in developing countries.
The move comes after the U.S. administration shut down much of USAID funding on February 3, followed by an announcement on March 10 from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that 83% of USAID programs would be cut. In its place, the U.S. is launching a $2.9 billion “America First Opportunity Fund” (A1OF), aimed at crisis response, strategic partnerships with countries like India and Jordan, repatriation efforts, and countering threats from global rivals like China.
The EU’s planned approach signals its intent to strengthen its global development influence, particularly in regions affected by the U.S. retreat from traditional aid structures.
