Janice R. Andrews
During a speech to Congress, President Donald Trump criticized U.S. foreign aid programs, citing Moldova and Serbia as examples where funds were “wasted.” Trump highlighted USAID projects in Moldova, which he claimed were ineffective, despite the country receiving over $200 million for energy initiatives. These projects aimed to reduce Moldova’s reliance on Russian energy, a critical issue for the Eastern European nation.
Trump also targeted Lesotho, an African nation, calling it a place “no one has ever heard of,” where $8 million was allocated to promote LGBTQ+ rights. He credited billionaire Elon Musk and the newly formed Department for Government Efficiency for cutting such programs. Musk, who attended the speech, supported Trump’s calls for free speech restoration, making English the official U.S. language, and returning federal employees to in-person work.
Additionally, Trump claimed that Social Security payments were being fraudulently sent to deceased individuals, a statement debunked by the Social Security Administration. He insisted his administration uncovered “fraud worth hundreds of billions of dollars,” aiming to reduce national debt and inflation.
Democrats, including Senator Elissa Slotkin, criticized Trump’s remarks, arguing his policies favor billionaires over everyday Americans. Slotkin stated, “President Trump is trying to deliver an unprecedented giveaway to his billionaire friends,” emphasizing the need to scrutinize his economic plans.
The speech has sparked debate over U.S. foreign aid priorities and domestic spending, with Trump’s claims facing scrutiny from opponents and fact-checkers alike. As tensions rise, the impact of these policies on both international relations and American households remains a key concern.
