Trump Mocks Lesotho While Defending Foreign Aid Cuts

In a Congressional address, President Trump mocked Lesotho, branding it a country “nobody has ever heard of” while discussing foreign aid cuts. He notably mentioned US funding supporting LGBTQI+ initiatives there, prompting laughter from lawmakers. Despite the country’s significant HIV/AIDS crisis, Trump’s administration has severely reduced foreign assistance, redirecting funds towards tax cuts.

During a Congressional address on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump humorously referred to Lesotho, stating it was a nation “nobody has ever heard of” while explaining his administration’s substantial cuts to foreign aid. He mentioned financial support for LGBTQI+ initiatives in Lesotho, struggling with its name pronunciation and eliciting laughter from the Republican lawmakers present, including Vice President JD Vance and Speaker Mike Johnson who appeared amused behind him.

Lesotho, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, battles high rates of HIV/AIDS, a health crisis that the United States has actively sought to mitigate through considerable aid. According to the US embassy, over $630 million has been allocated since 2006 for anti-HIV/AIDS initiatives, which include programs to support sexual minorities facing societal stigma.

In addition, the US finalized a $300 million agreement last year with the Millennium Challenge Corporation, aimed at enhancing health care and agricultural productivity in Lesotho, contingent upon the nation’s adherence to democratic norms and governance standards. Recently, Trump’s administration, upon regaining power, has rescinded over 90% of foreign aid, arguing that those funds serve the interests of the American public better when redirected toward tax reductions.

Moreover, the Trump administration, under billionaire Elon Musk’s guidance, has significantly diminished the scope of the US Agency for International Development (USAID). During his first term, Trump exhibited a minimal interest in Africa, previously making controversial remarks about African immigrants, which has contributed to perceptions of his administration’s views on the continent.

Trump’s recent remarks regarding Lesotho during his Congressional address highlight ongoing controversy surrounding US foreign aid. His mockery of the country aims to justify drastic funding cuts despite significant historical support for health initiatives. The administration’s stance reflects a broader shift in foreign policy under current leadership, raising questions about its implications on global health and development efforts.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com