Autocrats benefit from Trump plans to cut international aid - AP.

Freezing US aid: possible consequences

US President Donald Trump halted foreign aid for 90 days to eliminate waste and expenditures that do not align with American interests. However, experts warn that such a move could lead to an increase in authoritarianism. The US provides more funding for foreign aid than any other country, including support for organizations fighting for democracy in authoritarian regimes.

'Reducing funding for crucial programs sends the wrong signal to dictatorships and undermines brave people fighting for freedom. These investments must be a priority,' said the founder of the Human Rights Fund, which does not receive funding from the US.

In the current year, Congress allocated $690 million to combat authoritarianism in eight countries. However, even if funding for some programs is restored, authoritarian leaders have already begun to consolidate their power and suppress opposition.

According to experts, democratic programs are among the most effective tools for protecting US interests, and while reviewing their funding is reasonable, taxpayer money should be used wisely.

Despite this, public opinion shows that Americans feel the US spends too much money on foreign aid, even compared to other countries. However, the actual amount of foreign aid is less than 1% of the federal budget.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that military aid to Ukraine has not been halted in response to reports of a freeze on US foreign aid for 90 days.