Former U.S. President George W. Bush exceptionally publicly criticized President Donald Trump's decision to abolish the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
According to foreign media such as the British Telegraph, Bush held a video call with agency staff on the 1st (local time) to bid farewell, alongside former President Barack Obama and U2's Bono, on the occasion of USAID's official dismantling.
Established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID is a representative overseas aid agency that has strengthened U.S. national security and diplomatic standing by addressing poverty and disease in developing countries. However, President Trump dismantled the agency and absorbed it into the State Department, citing government efficiency and expenditure cuts.
During the video conference, former President Bush stated, "I think it is in the interest of the United States that 25 million people who might have been dead are now alive," adding, "You have shown the great power of America." This was interpreted as targeting budget cuts for the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which began during his administration.
The Trump administration significantly reduced the budget for such health aid programs, and Elon Musk previously referred to USAID as a "criminal organization". In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that the cessation of U.S. aid could lead to a shortage of HIV treatments in many countries within the coming months.
Former President Obama, who has previously refrained from criticizing Trump's policies, also remarked at the event that the dismantling of USAID is a "huge mistake". He emphasized, "This agency has saved lives, revitalized overseas economies, and opened U.S. markets," and added, "Your achievements will resonate for generations to come."
The event also saw a surprise appearance by Bono, a globally recognized humanitarian activist. He recited a poem dedicated to USAID staff, stating, "People called you frauds, but you were the best among us," while becoming emotional.
The Democratic Party commented, "Soon, the leaders of both parties will realize how necessary this agency is."
Meanwhile, Musk, who played a leading role in the dismantling of USAID, has previously posted on X (formerly Twitter) criticizing USAID, claiming that the dismantling of the organization was justified. He alleged that USAID's funds had flowed into leftist forces that hate America and had been used for research and development of biological weapons.