White House proposes significant cuts to US State Department budget

President Donald Trump's administration is looking to cut the US State Department's budget nearly in half. An internal document reviewed by the Washington Post reveals a proposal to allocate $28.4 billion, down from the previously approved $55.4 billion.

Funding for international organizations, humanitarian efforts, and global health initiatives will be particularly affected by this budget cut. Nearly 90% of US contributions to UN, NATO, and peacekeeping missions are likely to be slashed. Only a few entities, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), will continue to receive backing. Meanwhile, annual defense assistance to allies, including Israel and Egypt, is set to be at $5.1 billion. 

In addition, sources indicate that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is drafting an internal streamlining plan that could include significant staff reductions, consulate closures, and the elimination of various programs.

Despite the Republican majority, it remains unclear whether these proposals will be approved by Congress, as the Washington Post noted.