In a recent protest against the reduction of USAID staff by Elon Musk and the Trump administration, Democratic lawmakers voiced strong opposition. The protest also illuminated a complex reality: USAID's historical role as an instrument of American imperialism has included regime change, election meddling, and geopolitical maneuvering. Senators emphasized that the agency combats global threats and promotes U.S. interests abroad. Samantha Power acknowledged the agency's dual role in humanitarian efforts and strategic U.S. economic interests, prompting a reconsideration of its alleged altruism versus its true purpose in global affairs.
Democratic Senator Chris Murphy emphasized that USAID "fights terrorist groups all across this world" and "supports freedom fighters" in alignment with U.S. strategic interests.
Samantha Power revealed in a New York Times op-ed that USAID "weaponizes humanitarian aid" to bolster American financial interests while cloaking them as altruistic efforts.
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