The US Supreme Court has temporarily upheld President Donald Trump’s freeze on nearly $2 billion in foreign aid, pausing a lower court ruling that required immediate disbursement of the funds.
The court’s 5-4 decision allows the administration to continue reviewing aid allocations, citing concerns over wasteful spending and national interest. However, critics argue that the freeze could harm global humanitarian efforts and sets a dangerous precedent for executive power over congressional spending.
The ruling comes amid ongoing political and legal battles over Trump’s approach to foreign aid and federal budget control.
Supreme Court Ruling: What Does It Mean?
The Supreme Court’s decision, issued by Chief Justice John Roberts, temporarily blocks a lower court’s order that required the Trump administration to distribute the funds immediately.
Foreign aid payments remain frozen while the case continues.
The Trump administration has more time to review and potentially reallocate the funds.
A final Supreme Court ruling is expected later in 2025.
In a brief statement, the court said:
"The stay is granted pending further review."
The ruling is seen as a significant victory for Trump, who has long argued that foreign aid spending must be reassessed to prioritize US national interests.
Why Was the Foreign Aid Frozen?
The $2 billion in foreign aid was approved by Congress for humanitarian projects, disaster relief, and development assistance.
The Trump administration halted distribution, citing a need for greater oversight and spending reform.
A federal court ruled that the freeze was illegal, ordering the funds to be disbursed immediately.
Trump’s legal team appealed to the Supreme Court, leading to this temporary block.
Trump has repeatedly criticized US foreign aid spending, arguing that "too much money is given to countries that do not support America."
Reactions and Political Fallout
Trump Administration
The White House welcomed the decision, stating that the pause allows for "a full review of aid allocations to ensure taxpayer money is spent wisely."
A senior administration official said:
"President Trump has always prioritized putting America first. This ruling ensures that foreign aid is being reviewed carefully, instead of being handed out recklessly."
Democratic Lawmakers
Opposition leaders condemned the ruling, warning that it could weaken America’s global leadership.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said:
"The Supreme Court has allowed the President to block aid that Congress has already approved. This is a dangerous precedent for executive overreach."
Some lawmakers have suggested that Congress could act to override the freeze, though this would require bipartisan support.
Aid Organizations
Humanitarian groups warn that the freeze could impact millions of people in developing nations.
"These funds support food aid, healthcare, and disaster relief efforts. Blocking them could cause real harm to vulnerable communities." – International Human Rights Coalition
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court will review the case further, with a final decision expected later in 2025.
Congress may intervene, potentially passing legislation to override the aid freeze.
Aid groups and Democratic leaders may pursue further legal action to challenge the administration’s policy.
A White House spokesperson stated that Trump would consider reallocating aid funds toward domestic programs if given the legal authority.