The Donald Trump administration has begun a massive restructuring of the U.S. foreign aid system. Washington's priority is now promoting the MAGA ("Make America Great Again") ideology not only within the country but also in Europe. The White House is preparing a series of grants aimed at supporting projects that align with new political directives.
Information about the upcoming changes is confirmed by RBK-Ukraine citing Reuters and Financial Times. The State Department has already sent an official notification to lawmakers regarding the allocation of funds. The document cites a figure of $2 million, which will be directed towards countering censorship in Europe.
Attack on EU Digital Laws
The primary target of American funding will be European legislative norms. The U.S. plans to actively fight against the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Previously, Donald Trump repeatedly criticized these acts, calling them tools to restrict freedom of speech. Now, American taxpayers will fund initiatives opposing Brussels' regulatory policy.
This step marks a radical revision of the strategy Trump pursued at the beginning of his term. Initially, he sought to limit the influence of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as much as possible, considering it part of the "old bureaucratic system." However, the strategy has now changed: instead of traditional humanitarian programs, money is going to initiatives promoting the MAGA agenda.
Reaction of Allies and New Tariffs
The reform of the aid system has caused serious concern among European leaders. Brussels sees this as a direct attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of the European Union. Funding opposition movements and pressure groups could significantly increase tension between traditional NATO allies.
Washington, however, insists on its right to support those who share their views on market and information freedom. The grant program is the first step in this direction, and by the end of the year, the volume of funding for such initiatives could increase significantly.
Alongside diplomatic maneuvers, Trump is demonstrating toughness in trade policy. Recently, the U.S. leader announced the imposition of additional tariffs against Canada. The reason for this step was the smoke from forest fires in that country, which regularly covers U.S. territory, although Ottawa, in turn, often assists Americans in extinguishing fires in the U.S.
Monetizing Influence
A separate direction has become Trump's desire to profit from his own social network, Truth Social. He plans to introduce paid access for traders, ensuring them ultra-fast delivery of his posts, which are capable of influencing financial markets. This decision highlights the pragmatic approach of the new administration to using all available resources, from the state budget to personal assets.
