Musk-backed effort threatens USAID’s climate programs
A freeze on USAID funding, supported by Elon Musk and the Trump administration, has halted key climate initiatives, potentially jeopardizing disaster preparedness and clean energy projects worldwide.
Chico Harlan reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- USAID, a major U.S. agency funding climate resilience and clean energy abroad, faces possible elimination under a cost-cutting push backed by Musk and Trump.
- The freeze has already stalled efforts like early-warning systems for natural disasters and clean energy projects in nearly 100 countries.
- Critics argue the cuts weaken global stability, while supporters claim USAID’s climate agenda undermines U.S. economic interests and boosts China’s influence.
Key quote:
“We were literally providing lifesaving support.”
— Gillian Caldwell, former USAID chief climate officer.
Why this matters:
The United States Agency for International Development has long been at the forefront of addressing global climate challenges, particularly in vulnerable regions where rising temperatures, extreme weather events and sea level rise threaten livelihoods and stability. These efforts have included helping countries transition to clean energy sources, bolstering their resilience to natural disasters and supporting sustainable development practices. The potential elimination or scaling back of such programs raises significant concerns for both global and domestic interests.
Read more: U.S. foreign aid freeze threatens Brazil’s deforestation fight
